Though Billow Observatory's "Pankalia" traces a series of florid peaks and valleys across its six minutes, calling the collaboration between Michigan guitarist Jason Kolb and Danish producer Jonas Munk ambient seems misleading. To me, that term connotes that the music should be suited for the environment it enters; that is, it fits in. But "Pankalia" creates its own rare air, using heavily processed guitar to shape an atmosphere of complete command and attention.

As the sounds ebb and grow, they suggest, alternately, an army of keyboards, a nation of choirs, and an idealized collaboration between composers Arvo Pärt and Rhys Chatham. Similar to Stars of the Lid's most commanding moments, this track isn't just an orchestral score meant for the background; instead, it creates a canvas with everything around it, while the music teems on top.

[from Billow Observatory; out 12/04/12 via Felte]