Islands Of Tranquility: A Land Of Light Countdown
Land Of Light are the London-based duo of 2004 Academy grad Jonny Nash and Kyle Martin. Separately, Nash has earned praise from the likes of David Mancuso and François K for his Sombrero Galaxy project, and Kyle plays synth for ex-Ozric Tentacles/Planet Gong-fronted space rock band Dream Machine. Together, the pair make atmospheric, new worlds of sound which float just out of reach in Vangelis-tinged smoothness. Their new, self-titled debut album – released November 12 via ESP Institute – appropriately comes with detailed instructions for chilling out. We asked them to pick some of their favourite late night relaxation jams. Let Land Of Light take you to the other side.
The Blue Nile “From A Late Night Train”
Paul Buchanan and The Blue Nile had a big influence on us throughout the making of the Land Of Light album. Their use of space, reverb and silence is second to none, they really make everything count. This is one of our favourites from the 1989 album Hats.
Mark Isham “Sympathy And Acknowledgement”
Mark Isham, at his cinematic, atmospheric best, from the album Vapour Drawings.
Tony Drake “To Touch You”
We were turned on to Tony Drake and his album Textures by Mo Morris (ZSOU/A Mountain of One). This track really encapsulates his sound – late night isolation and solitude expressed beautifully.
Begin “Lay”
We are massive fans of Begin’s production, top class stuff. This is one of his standout tracks from earlier this year.
Gigi Masin “Call Me”
Italian pianist Gigi Masin’s album Wind Collector absolutely blew us away. The depth of emotion he puts into each and every one of his compositions is just staggeringly beautiful.
Mazzy Star “Common Burn”
Great comeback for Mazzy Star on this 7" from 2011 after a long hiatus.
Mind Over Matter “La Vie”
Had to put something from Innovative Communication in this list. The pace and movement of this track are so perfectly balanced, you can’t help but get sucked in.
John Martyn “The Small Hours”
Another Scottish selection, from the legendary John Martyn. Possible no other track captures the reflective solitude of the small hours better than this.
Seahawks “Hot Space (Jonny Nash Cosmic Fandango Remix)”
Smoky, late night feel on this Seahawks remix from earlier this year. It’s quite delicate but good on a floor in the early hours of the morning, where the veil between this dimension and others is thinnest!
Mirroring “Drowning The Call (2012)”
We were introduced to Grouper’s music through this album and have since become big fans. Incredibly delicate soundscapes that really hit the spot.
Check snippets from the duo's forthcoming album self-titled album below:
