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Ten - Self Titled
I must admit, it has been a while since an album has left me in such a state of requiescence -- Ten’s latest offering is the musical kindred spirit of perfect somnolence and dreamlike intoxication.
Like Brian Eno settling down for the night with Town And Country -- the nightcap being a large spoonful of this CD.
 Ten have that very rare ability to keep you suspended in happiness, by using very minute stimulating sounds.
The Intro track, for example, has three notes reverberating gently and the effect is akin to relaxing by the calmest of lakes with the natural sounds soothing the soul.
As the album hits its own mid-rift, visceral deep synth pads push a more urgent brooding feeling over the listener. Imagine Stars of the Lid if they were much darker in texture and in sound. This album is becoming more awe inspiring as each new track gently arrives. .
Track 7 is the clincher for me. At the end of the most turbid day, this song would have the ability to stop anyone from considering mass murder (Not that I want to go on a rampage after work). The song becomes part of the listener -- Pulsing through mind fields whilst harvesting the most unruffled and sated feelings imaginable. I feel ready for bed at 19.23pm.
I have to add, that this album has to be appreciated at the right time. If you are looking for an energetic rush, stick to Red Bull. The first time I heard it, I needed some urgency and this release was the complete opposite, It was only when I was in the correct frame of (open) mind that I was able to understand this album fully. It talks to you in hushed tones that demand 100% listening commitment on a truly unconditional level and only then can you understand.
An album of beautiful heightening sensations. Turn the lights off, put the headphones in, turn it up and you will escape normality for the length of this album. My only regret is that I had to come back.
7.5/10
http://www.myspace.com/tenthegreat
Reviewed by Nicky
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