BJ Cole's captivating album, The New Hovering Dog, is a masterful exploration of the idm genre, released on 25 November 2013 via the New Hovering Dog label. This 43-minute sonic journey is a testament to Cole's innovative approach, weaving together a diverse range of sounds and textures.
The album's tracklist is a veritable treasure trove of eclectic delights, from the enigmatic 'The Regal Progression' to the hauntingly beautiful 'Cold Mountain Mariner'. The infectious rhythms of 'Up on the Hill Where They Do the Boogie' give way to the introspective 'You're Probably Lost', showcasing Cole's remarkable ability to craft songs that are both deeply personal and universally relatable.
The incorporation of steel guitar and percussion in 'Five Pieces for Steel Guitar and Percussion' adds a unique dimension to the album, while the wistful 'I Know Now' and the playfully titled 'The East Winchley Tango' demonstrate Cole's skill in crafting melodies that are both memorable and emotionally resonant. The album's closing tracks, 'Pie in the Sky' and 'Remington Ride', bring the journey full circle, leaving the listener with a lasting impression of BJ Cole's innovative genius.
With The New Hovering Dog, BJ Cole has created an album that is at once a showcase for his technical prowess and a deeply human exploration of the idm genre. The result is a work of remarkable depth and complexity, one that rewards repeated listens and invites the listener to immerse themselves in its richly textured soundscapes.