Harold Budd's "Ambient 2: The Plateaux Of Mirror" is a seminal work in the ambient genre, originally released on January 1, 1980, under EMI Marketing. This album, remastered in 2004, is a masterclass in minimalism and drone, with a touch of shoegaze that sets it apart. Clocking in at just under 40 minutes, the album is a concise yet profound exploration of sound and space.
Budd's delicate piano melodies intertwine with Brian Eno's atmospheric production, creating a soundscape that is both intimate and vast. Each track, from the opening "First Light" to the closing "Failing Light," is a journey through serene and reflective landscapes. The album's title track, "The Plateaux Of Mirror," is a standout, showcasing Budd's ability to evoke vast, open spaces with just a few notes.
"Ambient 2: The Plateaux Of Mirror" is a testament to Budd's unique approach to music, blending minimalism with ambient textures to create a sound that is both timeless and innovative. Whether you're a long-time fan of ambient music or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, this album is a perfect starting point. It's an album that invites you to slow down, listen closely, and lose yourself in the beauty of its soundscapes.