Powers Of Observation
Teahouse, 2026
8/10
Listen to Powers Of Observation
The solo project of the Los Angeles musician Chris Murphy, this instrumental album allows for his imagination to impress us with just an electric violin.
The glowing ambience of “Amanda On The Bed” starts the listen with a distinct sophistication that’s also mysterious, and “Longing” follows with playful plucking and a cinematic quality via the radiant textures.
Moving along, “Encrypted” touches on post-rock ideas thanks to the chilling atmosphere, while “Buried In Her Heart” is indeed heartfelt and possesses a poetic quality amid the meticulous strings.
Nearing the end, “Glacier’s Edge” weaves in and out of mesmerizing and lush song craft, and “Narrow Margin” finishes with a soothing, nearly therapeutic moment of sublime beauty.
You’re gonna be quite surprised at what Murphy can do with his instrument, as he spans classical, jazz, electronic and worldly ideas that might bring to mind Explosions In The Sky or Mogwai, which could never be a bad thing.
Travels well with: Chris Murphy- The Road And The Stars; Stone Arch Rivals- That’s What They Say