Darshan: Autumn Light

John W. Patterson

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Published: December 1, 2000

A single word to describe Darshan is serenity. Darshan, aka Michael Allison, strives to keep things simple. Rather than employ odd dronings, weird synth effects or layer-upon-layer loopings of brain-overloading sounds — Darshan prefers to offer the floating mote instead of swinging the heavy beam. Sparsely airy, easy caresses of synth and piano-voice keys gradually transport the listener into moods of peace and the calming of daydreams.

Eno solo piano voice, Budd basics of the ivory way, and Tim Story stylings are all here. Think Windham Hill’s sampler of new electronic music, The Soul of the Machine and such quality. I also heard that Mark Isham soundtrack technique sans brass. Repeating melody lines, synth washes like breezes or gentle tides, graceful line and symmetry, all well-balanced in six vignettes serve to ease the heart. Peace reigneth over the sustained moment with Darshan.

If you are new to Ambience in music, you might start right here to hear simple beauty. This is light-filled warmth and healing — serenity. Strongly recommended.

Track Listing: Selfless, The 3rd Day, Lotus On A Sunbeam, Coming Home, Autumn Light, Purple Heart

Personnel: Darshan (Michael Allison) - All synths and keys

Record Label: DarshanMusic
Style: Ambient