Blake Braden – The Most Beautiful Song I've Heard
What makes one field recording more admirable than the rest? Is it perhaps the effective use of time/space? The inclusion of acoustic/electronic elements? Or the journey? At its peak, “The Most Beautiful Song I’ve Heard” is an absolute stunning amalgamation of each element combined. It’s album cover is the perfect visual encapsulation of the album’s contents; each movement is striking and colourful. Blake Braden has had quite the journey.
The most commendable aspect of Braden’s work is his ability to condense the fractured memories of years into a digestible suite. Incorporating an extensive plethora of recordings from various locations, it often truly feels like one is drifting in and out of his memories in a dream-like fashion. The album is the musical equivalent of a Charlie Kauffman’s work. One could only hope it was shorter, as Braden’s work is borderline self-indulgent - it’s not cultivated for mass appeal. Very often the recorder is recording something far too trivial, such as during the first half of Matsuri, an obnoxious conversation with a robot on Things Fade…., brushing his teeth during Morning Love Hotel, or the entirety of …are you following ok? Pieces such as All Alone in Turbulent Waters are too short, and tracks like All Those Beds… are too long. Braden sadly lacks quality control.
It’s a shame, because much of his project is stunning. I love you is the ultimate journey – there’s a hint of the Fisherman’s dream-like vision running through the track. An incredibly lush piano lied rests in the centre of the track like a pond in the field. Still not quite there... takes one on a ride so fascinating and charming, consistently inviting one on board with Braden. A sense of dread is masterfully instilled through …am I the only one…?, and a sense of humour is the cherry on top of Down Into the Jazz Cellar. Overall, the album is quite vulnerable and devilishly alluring.
“The Most Beautiful Song I’ve Heard” is a gorgeous record, and an easy recommendation. Each fractured memory is passionately displayed in a celebratory manner. The contrast of USA to Japan is spectacular. Even when it’s not enjoyable; it’s admirable; the album clearly has a clear vision and a commendable execution. Furthermore, Nick Riley’s production is exquisite and well worth your attention. I only wish the album was condensed into something more digestible, and I wish I had such a piece to represent my own life.
Really Good
Listen to it here:
https://themostbeautifulsongiveheard.bandcamp.com/album/the-most-beautiful-song-ive-heard
Blake Braden – The Most Beautiful Song I've Heard
