Review for Sonic Planar Analysis taken from the 'Splendid' E-Zine.
Stasisfield is a fledgling record label that, until this release, has focused exclusively on digital music in mp3 format. Their website attempts to provide exposure to young ambient and experimental electronic artists, as well as housing an interesting and rather futuristic art gallery. The bottom line is, even though Sonic Planar Analysis is the label's first physical recording, Stasisfield is already quite established and experienced with presenting and producing music.
Think of the tracks on Sonic Planar Analysis as the future of background music. The pieces here range from subtle and whispery, like John Kannenberg's "Contrail", to loud and grating, like the previously unreleased "Echoes of Madges Kitchen" by Psychiatric Challenge. But whether it's flowing and aimless or sharp and explosive, each of these ten tracks is an adventure to listen to.
Experimental or not, some of these selections are simply dull, like Jon Irving's "Ariadne". I mean, come on, at least Yanni plays the piano. But for the most part, the pieces are at least interesting, as with the cut and re-cut version of "Mediations (on AshKroft)" by Loam. This is hypnotic, pulsating, mechanical outer space music, best suited to more experimental tastes. -- Kevin White (August 2002)