Kevin Drumm – Tannenbaum

CD version does not include the last 40 minutes of this release.

Despite the serene and seemingly apathetic movement of these megalithic glacial drones, there is a very eerie tension from the beginning to the very end of this remarkable record. A huge iceberg abound in dark tranquillity slowly but steadily moving towards - you!

My Number One record of 2013.

If I had to chose just one record from this year, Tannenbaum has instantly come to mind every time. Surfacing early in January, this has been the only record continually gaining play for all twelve months. First in extended form, then parred down to the bare essentials of the stand-alone CD issue featured here.

I suffered a skiing accident Christmas Day. Attempting to avoid a hospital visit, I made way from the backcountry to my home. A 20 minute drive, I nearly made it. The effects of my concussion worsening each minute. Maybe 300 yards to go, I pulled over to the side of the entrance, grabbed my phone, opened my door, began vomiting as I tumbled high from the driver's seat with the suspension unfortunately still raised. I laid wet on the icy snow covered road. Continually heaving and nauseous, all I could think of was laying on the floor by the fire wrapped up in a blanket listening to Tannenbaum. No one piece of music has a calming effect that even comes close....

I have yet to see Tannenbaum make a year end list and am afraid this piece of music has long since been forgotten or overlooked in its small edition. Whatever the reason, here is another reminder or push. Absolutely essential drones.