Musical art and experimentation

If there is any musician out there that can capture the intelligence that is an integral part of IDM, then it would Anenon. Anenon, the stage name for experimental composer Brian Allen Simon, captures this essence beautifully on his latest release Tongue. Based out of Los Angeles, California, Anenon is known for his highly experimental approaches to composition, and his ability to combine melodic beauty and powerful rawness. His experimental approach to his music has also landed him an opportunity to guest lecture at California Institute of the Arts, co-found a series of ambient music performances known as Monument, and host a Dublab internet radio program known as Non-Projections.

Anenon once again showcases his ability to craft eloquent compositions on Tongue, through his ability to blend minimalist electronica, modern classical and ambient music. Anenon also pushes the bounds of experimental music on tracks such as “Pure.” The song opens with an arrangement of chaotic and almost random electronic sounds and then there is a complete shift to an ambient piano arrangement. It is a short piano pattern that is drawn out over a thick lo-fi background.

This shift in sound is something that is seen throughout the album, although it is much subtler. The best example of this shift is seen on the track “Mansana.” The song is the longest on the album, sitting at just over eight minutes, and goes from a minimalist classic flute composition to a piano arrangement with electronic elements and multiple flute patterns. The use of the variety woodwind instruments and the electronic pads truly bring out the ambient feel of the song.

Some of the more classical elements on the album can be heard on tracks such as “Contra” and “Versa.” The two tracks fall back to back on the project, and they each showcase Anenon’s musicianship on the piano. “Contra” is a short song with a more ambient vibe, while “Versa” features a more pronounced modern classical feel.

Electronica makes an appearance early in the album on the second track, “Two for C.” The still has the modern classical influence using a saxophone, piano and various electronic melodies.  The title track “Tongue” features a more even blend of electronic melodies, synths and piano patterns that are glued together with a thick bassline. These elements are blended together so beautifully that they seamlessly overlap each other.

Tongue is an extremely beautiful album that not only experiments, but also contributes to musical art. Anenon paints vivid masterpieces using sounds that leave behind powerful emotions. It is truly a work of art in that it holds both a classic and modern beauty.