Spring by Steven R. Smith

Long into his varied, restless recording life, Steven R. Smith continues to deliver moments of wonder. Spring, like much of his very best, explores small notions that shift and expand to reveal a private sort of grandeur.

Joining Smith on Spring is Gareth Davis, the Amsterdam-based bass clarinetist and occasional collaborator of Machinefabriek, Merzbow, Elliot Sharp and Smith himself, and his presence here is crucial. The restrained interplay between Smith (on guitar, piano, percussion etc.) and Davis create a warmth and intimacy akin to Mark Hollis' masterful eponymous solo LP.

Steven R. Smith is the mind of Hala Strana, Ulaan Khol, Ulaan Passerine, Ulaan Markhor (& so many more), but also makes music under his given name. Active since the mid-90s, Smith has recorded a staggering totem of work, and every release is as good as the next.