Portland’s Liz Harris returns in fine form with a double LP of ethereal experimentation. Though not quite equalling the sublime sinkhole of her 2008 release Dragging a Dead Deer Up a Hill, this similar-minded set still manages to gently lull the listener into its unique world of tape warble and heavenly vocal loops. Harris has an unparalleled ability to reach through her own hazy guitar work and undecipherable lyrics and develop tangible emotional landscapes. Dark—yet not exactly depressing (more full of cosmic wanderlust)—
these are two grade-A ambient albums perfect for late night headphones or bedside stereos.
This article appears in May 26 – Jun 1, 2011.