Adam Wiltzie co-founded the brilliant ambient duo Stars of the Lid with Brian McBride, who sadly passed away in 2023. Wiltzie’s new solo release of magnificent ambience, Eleven Fugues for Sodium Pentothal, may result in total relaxation and drowsiness, as its title suggests. Mixed by Robert Hampson from Loop and Main fame, the music may seem familiar to those who have heard Stars of the Lid, but Wiltzie is a master of his craft and the pieces are detailed, concise, and moving. The opening track is the longest—over eight minutes of drone bliss—while the remaining pieces are under five minutes, but still very thoughtful and powerful. The pieces all have their individual sound, but everything flows together well. Eleven Fugues for Sodium Pentothal is a reminder of how great Wiltzie is crafting some of the most beautiful ambient music out there.

Kranky