“BLOOMFIELD MACHINE’S” ‘LEFT TO OUR OWN DEVICES’ : AN EPIC JOURNEY ACROSS TIME AND SPACE
3 min read
In the world of experimental music, only a handful of artists can match the immense creative genius of Brian Kassan, the visionary behind Bloomfield Machine. With the release of his sixth solo album, titled “Left to Our Own Devices,” Kassan extends an enchanting invitation to embark on a captivating odyssey through a sonic universe entirely of his own conjuring.
This musical endeavor stands as a testament to Kassan’s extraordinary prowess as a multi-instrumentalist. He effortlessly navigates through the realms of guitar, keyboards, bass, and intricate drum programming, meticulously crafting an immersive auditory journey that defies the confines of traditional boundaries. The outcome is an album that entices its listeners to explore uncharted auditory landscapes.
In 2017, the musical odyssey known as Bloomfield Machine embarked on its journey under the guidance of the talented Kassan. Originating from the golden shores of Huntington Beach, California, Kassan’s creativity is profoundly shaped by the vibrant tapestry of his surroundings.
What truly distinguishes Bloomfield Machine is its diverse and intricate web of musical influences. Kassan’s artistic palette is a vivid mosaic, incorporating elements from the progressive rock era of the 70s, the timeless beauty of classical melodies, and the contemporary electronic landscapes carved out by visionaries like Boards of Canada, My Bloody Valentine, and Gary Numan. The outcome is a sonic masterpiece that transcends conventional categorization, an enchanting fusion of the past and the present.
Although Bloomfield Machine hasn’t yet taken the grand stage of major festivals or graced television screens, its presence has been steadily growing within the local music scene, leaving audiences mesmerized by their unforgettable performances accompanied by a live drummer. The project harbors ambitions to broaden its live presence in the near future, promising more memorable shows to come.
Critics have showered praise upon Bloomfield Machine’s previous works, with one reviewer hailing it as a “progressive instrumental tour de force.” Kassan’s remarkable skill in effortlessly intertwining classical and electronic elements within his compositions has garnered him well-deserved accolades and recognition in the music industry. “Left to Our Own Devices” is a labor of love, thoroughly recorded, mixed, and mastered in Kassan’s home studio in Huntington Beach, CA. It’s a testament to his unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of sound.
Kassan’s creative process is a free-flowing one, drawing from a vast array of influences without inhibition. The result is an album that takes listeners on an unpredictable journey through sound and emotion.
Three tracks that particularly shine on this album are “When is it Done Really?” (Track 3), “Levels of Infinity” (Track 11), and “Supernormal” (Track 13). Each showcases the depth and diversity of Bloomfield Machine’s musical range. In a playful nod to the ever-shifting tides of musical trends, Kassan light-heartedly acknowledges the gradual brevity of his tracks. He amusingly attributes this evolution to the magnetic pull of playlists and his fascination with live musical performances on YouTube. It’s a delightful quirk that injects an intriguing layer of charm into his musical creations.
In his own wonderful words, “This album is designed to be enjoyed through headphones, allowing you to savor each concise auditory and visual experience. Alternatively, it can serve as the perfect sonic backdrop for various tasks. However you choose to engage with it, these melodies are destined to leave an indelible imprint on the pathways of your mind.”
Bloomfield Machine’s “Left to Our Own Devices” extends an inviting hand, encouraging you to embark on a musical odyssey that spans across decades and genres. With its entrancing rhythms, compelling melodies, and a fusion of vintage analog equipment and cutting-edge technology, this album stands as a testament to Kassan’s musical genius and unwavering innovation. It’s an open invitation to explore the ever-evolving realm of sound with a receptive heart and an open mind. Thank you for lending your ears to this beautiful masterpiece.
For more information about Bloomfield machine, click on the links below
https://www.facebook.com/Bloomfield-Machine-103682937878586/
https://bloomfieldmachine.bandcamp.com
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