Ambitious and experimental concept album exploring the infiniteness of both consciousness and space. Planetarium was originally conceived when the Dutch concert hall Muziekgebouw Eindhoven commissioned Nico Muhly to compose a new piece. Muhly immediately thought of singer songwriter Sufjan Stevens and The National's Bryce Dessner who he'd known for years. The three worked together, Nico bringing his experience composing for orchestras and choirs, Bryce with his virtuosity, and Sufjan driving the song structure and lyrics. They were joined by frequent Stevens collaborator James McAlister who contributed the rhythmic elements to the project. The song cycle revolves around mythology and astrology, the ancient concept that stars and planets of the night sky represent gods, heroes and monsters. And the music is as diverse as the subject matter, spanning classical, ambient, prog rock and beyond. Seventeen tracks in all. Released by 4AD on double vinyl housed in a gatefold sleeve with printed inner sleeves, six double sided artwork inserts and a digital download.

• double vinyl pressing
• gatefold sleeve
• printed inner sleeves
• six double sided artwork inserts
• digital download included
• music label: 4AD 2017

reviewed by vlad boi 06/2017