Steve Peters - Pico Azores

Review by Pabllo Rocha

Pico Azores, the latest album by Steve Peters, is a beautiful and haunting collection of ambient compositions. The album is named after the volcanic island of Pico in the Azores archipelago, and Peters has taken inspiration from the island's rugged landscapes and unique ecology to create an immersive sonic experience.

The album opens with "Piquinho," a track that immediately transports the listener to the island's rocky shores with its crashing waves and seagull cries. From there, Peters takes us on a journey through the island's forests, caves, and volcanic peaks. The tracks are layered with field recordings, found sounds, and subtle electronic textures, creating a rich and complex sonic landscape.

Throughout the album, Peters demonstrates a keen ear for detail, crafting intricate soundscapes that reward close listening. The tracks are often slow and meditative, inviting the listener to sink into the music and lose themselves in its textures and rhythms. At the same time, there is a sense of urgency and tension that runs through the album, reflecting the island's volatile geology and the threat of natural disasters.

Summary by Pabllo Rocha

Pico Azores is a stunning achievement, both as a work of art and as a tribute to a unique and fascinating corner of the world. Peters has created a sonic portrait that captures the beauty and mystery of Pico, and invites the listener to explore its landscapes and ecosystems through the medium of sound. Highly recommended for fans of ambient and experimental music.