Bestiary

"Bestiary," released by Robert Rich in 2001, is a captivating exploration into the realms of ambient and space music, showcasing the artist's unique sonic vision. This album, originally issued on the Release/Relapse label, is a testament to Rich's innovative approach to sound, blending elements of dark ambient, drone, and new age music into a cohesive and immersive experience. With a duration of 53 minutes, "Bestiary" features eight tracks that evoke a frenetic and surreal landscape, inhabited by a variety of bizarre organisms, a concept Rich refers to as “glurp.”

The album begins with "Mantis Intentions," an eight-minute journey that sets the tone for the rest of the record. "Nesting on Cliffsides" follows, stretching to nearly 13 minutes, and continues to build the atmospheric tension. Each track on "Bestiary" is meticulously crafted, reflecting Rich's background in computer music and psychology, which he uses to create a psychoactive stimulus through sound. The album's experimental nature is carefully threaded, avoiding raw experimentation for the sake of it, and instead focuses on self-refinement and taste.

"Bestiary" is not just an album; it is a sonic journey through a jungle of electronic sounds, carefully constructed to captivate both passive and active listeners. The tracks transition seamlessly, creating a piece that is in constant flux, making it a standout in Robert Rich's discography. Whether you are a fan of ambient, space music, or experimental electronic sounds, "Bestiary" offers a unique listening experience that pushes the boundaries of genre conventions. The album's release date varies slightly depending on the source, with some indicating January 1, 2001, and others September 18, 2001, but its impact remains consistent across all platforms.

Robert Rich is a pioneering figure in the realms of ambient, dark ambient, and experimental music, with a career spanning over four decades. Born in Menlo Park, California, in 1963, Rich began his musical journey at the age of 13 by building his own analog modular synthesizers, a passion that has continued to influence his unique sound. He studied computer music at Stanford's CCRMA and has since released over 50 albums, each a testament to his innovative approach to sound design.

Rich's music is characterized by its intricate layers and textures, often achieved through the use of homemade acoustic and electronic instruments, microtonal tunings, and computer-based signal processing. His live performances, particularly his legendary Sleep Concerts, offer immersive experiences that transcend traditional musical boundaries. These all-night events encourage a deeper connection with the music, inviting audiences to explore the psychoactive potential of sound.

Beyond his solo work, Robert Rich has collaborated with notable artists such as Steve Roach and Lustmord, and has contributed to sound design projects for film and television. His influence extends beyond music, with a published collection of poetry that explores themes of nature, mysticism, and the biosphere. Rich's dedication to his craft and his innovative approach to music continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.