Soothing, Heartfelt and Powerful

Moby’s latest album, Ambient 23, is the perfect bit of relaxing music to give people a much-needed break from the chaos and uncertainty of the current times in which we live. Just as the title states, this is an ambient album full of beautiful music that is calming and meditative. Its soothing ability was actually intentional, as the artist stated that it was “made to help anxiety (my own, and hopefully yours too).”

This electronic album is interesting, with its use of 80s style synthesizers and retro drum beats. This aspect of the album is what the artist stated made it “a bit different than some of my more recent Ambient records because it’s almost exclusively made with weird old drum machines and old synths.” Not only does the album incorporate these retro sounds, but it also skillfully includes some orchestral instruments. Some tracks on the album contain a delicate piano accompaniment, as well as a heartfelt cello solo.

The album is highly emotional as a whole, with its ability to call to mind images of sunsets and walks on the beach. Its absence of a distinct rhythm causes it to feel delightfully weightless, as if listeners are actually floating through its simple melodies. Every track begins with a lengthy intro that slowly builds over time as the piece comes together. Though this album contains strong emotions, it is not overwhelming, and actually helps to establish a connection between the listener, the music and by extension, the artist.

Moby has created an incredibly peaceful album that is both calming and emotionally (and sonically) powerful. The amount of time and thoughtfulness that went into the making of this soundtrack is evident in every single track. The simple, light melodies are easy to listen to for hours at a time, and never get old. Electronic music fans looking for a new relaxing soundtrack to meditate to will certainly find it in Moby’s newest effort Ambient 23.