Sublime 2011 release from Liz Harris aka Grouper. AIA Alien Observer was released on the same day as AIA Dream Loss as part of a lush album dyad of languishing, lo-fidelity, eyes-down folk, with Alien Observer offering more song-based fare and Dream Loss favoring textural and atmospheric works (or at least that’s how I have them tagged in my brain… like any Grouper material, it defies categorization). If you’re not familiar, this album’s as good a starting point as any. Push through the soupy, 7-minute opener “Moon Is Sharp” into the hair-raising utopian clearing that is the title track. “She Loves Me That Way” is another real standout. Just stunning from start to finish. Includes two printed inserts featuring drawings by Liz herself. Recommended.

• black vinyl pressing
• includes 2 printed inserts w/ artwork by Liz Harris
• music label: Kranky 2019

reviewed by Le Big Mac 09/2021