Frédéric Nogray - Merua

Review by Michael Laffitte

Merua is an ambient album by French musician Frédéric Nogray, released in 2014. The album features four tracks that are all inspired by the natural landscapes of the Himalayas. The music is a beautiful blend of field recordings, ambient textures, and acoustic instruments.

The first track, "Merua I," opens with the sound of flowing water and birds chirping, creating a peaceful and calming atmosphere. The track then builds up with layers of drones and subtle percussion, creating a sense of movement and progression.

The second track, "Merua II," features a beautiful melody played on a traditional Himalayan instrument called the sarangi. The melody is accompanied by subtle drones and field recordings of birds and wind, creating a meditative and introspective mood.

The third track, "Merua III," is perhaps the most experimental track on the album. It features abstract sounds and textures created using electronic manipulation of field recordings and acoustic instruments. The track is a sonic exploration of the natural world, and it creates a sense of mystery and wonder.

The final track, "Merua IV," is a beautiful and haunting piece that features a solo voice singing a traditional Himalayan song. The voice is accompanied by gentle drones and subtle percussion, creating a sense of sadness and longing.

Summary by Michael Laffitte

Merua is a beautiful and immersive album that transports the listener to the natural landscapes of the Himalayas. The music is a perfect blend of traditional and modern sounds, and it creates a sense of peace and tranquility. Highly recommended for fans of ambient music and world music.