Readers of this site know how much I love and appreciate the music of American composer Kevin Keller. He is equally comfortable working in several genres, whether it’s deep ambient, chilly techno, sacred choral music, minimalism, or classical chamber music. Over a long career and many albums, he has produced a wide variety of songs, and I can safely say that he has never disappointed me. His melodies are some of the most beautiful and engaging ever composed, and his production standards are never less than outstanding. Simply put, Kevin Keller is a musical treasure, and we should be thankful he is such a productive one.
His latest offering is coming out October 30, and it is called Altus. It is all instrumental, and, as is often the case with Keller, it features a seamless mix of electronic and acoustic instruments. I am a subscriber to his VIP program, so I was able to download and get an advance listen to the tracks.
My overall impression of the album – and I believe it should be listened to as a whole, in one sitting – is of a meditative journey. It begins with the calm and relatively ambient “Mirror of Change”, which slowly metamorphoses over its seven minutes into a gently beating tune with hints of a choir.
The second track, “The Messenger”, is energetic and bouncy. Its ringing and joyous instrumentation brings to my mind the Christmas season, with all of its anticipation and excitement. Next up is my favorite song, “The Sacred Chord”. Some gorgeous acoustic piano plays the theme while tasteful synth washes create a sense of suspension – time and space no longer have meaning while I lose myself in all of this heavenly sound! If Satie was able to collaborate with Brian Eno, they might come up with what Keller has put together here.
By the time we reach “Illumination”, we are well into our journey. This is deep space music that is welcoming and comforting. The bass notes are mixed prominently as a languid melody unfolds. “The Quickening Air” brings us back to earth with a delightful and lively melody on acoustic piano. There is a gently insistent sequencer laying down the pulse, while the piano and what sounds like a hammered dulcimer(?) engage in a spirited duet.
We return to a more contemplative atmosphere with “Reflections Below”, as a simple motif is stated and gradually developed by both piano and synthesizer. “The Gatekeeper” continues the contemplative mood with deep bass notes adding a feeling of solemnity.
“Constellations of Silence” begins with a pipe organ playing a beautiful Bach-like melody. Keller’s production creates an atmosphere of peaceful, hushed stillness for the entire track. Then the opening notes of “The Motion of All Things” begin, and it is like slowly waking up from a restful and healing sleep. This track immediately felt like I was seeing a sunrise slowly unfold before me.
The album closes with the majestic title track, “Altus”. Featuring piano, synths, and subdued choral washes, the listener is completely refreshed and ready to face the world.
Altus is a 51-minute journey into inner space that is extremely rewarding. I don’t know if Keller is religious, but I find his music has much spirituality in it. There is a respect for stillness, contemplation, and sheer beauty that is undeniable in all of his work.
You can pre-order Altus here. I strongly recommend you check it out, if you appreciate serious 21st century instrumental music. With Altus, Keller has produced a masterpiece that encourages the listener to slow down and contemplate what is good, true, and beautiful. That definitely runs counter to our current culture, but I am grateful we have artists like Kevin Keller who aren’t afraid to promote those values.
