Album reviews: Nils Frahm's Spaces
Please note: This article is published as an archive copy from Philadelphia City Paper. My City Paper is not affiliated with Philadelphia City Paper. Philadelphia City Paper was an alternative weekly newspaper in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The last edition was published on October 8, 2015.
[Grade: B+] As the music industry settles in for its long winter's nap, it's hard to imagine a richer hibernation soundtrack than this.
Nils Frahm | B+
As the music industry settles in for its long winter’s nap, it’s hard to imagine a richer hibernation soundtrack than Spaces (Erased Tapes), an engrossing compilation of performances by Berlin pianist Nils Frahm. These improvisations and reworked compositions range from placid zone-outs to ecstatic space-drones to visceral flights of flash. Since they’re live recordings, Frahm’s reveries are interspersed with bursts of applause, creating the odd sensation that you’re being cheered on for relaxing. You’ve earned it.
