"IBM 1401, A User's Manual" is a captivating neoclassical album by Icelandic composer Jóhann Jóhannsson, released in 2006 under the esteemed 4AD label. This fourth full-length studio album is a unique exploration of sound, inspired by an old recording of an IBM mainframe computer made by Jóhannsson's father, Jóhann Gunnarsson, over three decades ago. The album is a testament to Jóhannsson's ability to transform mundane, mechanical sounds into a mesmerizing musical experience.
The album's five tracks are named after different components of the IBM 1401 Data Processing System, with the final track, "The Sun's Gone Dim And The Sky's Turned Black," offering a stark contrast. Each piece is a meticulous interpretation of the computer's melodies, rendered in a classical style that highlights the beauty hidden within the mechanical. The album's duration is a concise 42 minutes, making it a perfect introduction to Jóhannsson's distinctive sound.
The music was recorded in Reykjavik in 1971, with the computer playing a fragment of the hymn "Ísland Ögrum Skorid" by Sigvaldi Kaldalóns. The album's compelling backstory, combined with its unique sound, makes "IBM 1401, A User's Manual" a standout release in Jóhannsson's discography. The album was initially released on CD and later pressed on vinyl in 2017, with a double LP pressing on clear-coloured vinyl that included two previously unreleased live bonus tracks. Whether you're a fan of neoclassical music or simply curious about the intersection of technology and art, this album offers a unique and engaging listening experience.
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