Mosaic CD

Christian Fennesz returns with Mosaic, an intricate album that lives up to its name, crafted meticulously layer by layer. Recorded throughout 2023 and completed in 2024, the project marks Fennesz's most reflective work yet. After setting up a new studio, his third in four years, Fennesz followed a disciplined daily routine, building the album from scratch without breaks. This structured approach allowed him to experiment freely, collecting and improvising ideas before developing them into fully composed pieces.The Touch label is natural home for this release. Some of his most important work has found its way to the label over the past 25 years like 2004's Venice and 2001's Endless Summer. Mosaic s has a delicate assembly of sonic fragments, creating a soundscape both complex and organic. The opener, 'Heliconia', introduces shimmering tones that float effortlessly, establishing a meditative atmosphere. Fennesz's unique approach to rhythm shines through on tracks like 'Love and the Framed Insects', which features an unconventional 7/4 time signature. Meanwhile, 'Personare' draws subtle inspiration from 1980s West African pop, a surprising influence that adds depth to the album's palette. One of the album's most intriguing pieces, 'Goniorizon', began with layers of hard rock guitar riffs but eventually evolved into something cinematic, showcasing Fennesz's ability to transform raw elements into magnificent landscapes. While guitar textures remain present, they feel more integrated into the overall fabric of the sound, lending the album a cohesive, filmic quality. Mosaic is both methodical and emotional, blending experimentation with an underlying sense of nostalgia. Another excellent album from one of the best.