Memories Compiled, Vol. 2 is a double-CD reissue of two early cassette releases by
Vidna Obmana (aka Dirk Serries). In his early career, Serries was a pure minimalist with strong references to
Brian Eno. Near the Flogging Landscape (disc one) is a 14-track set of icy and gray minimalism. Serries can go dark with the best of them and still does. And some passages on this disc are dark, but the main focus is one of isolation and desolation; the imagery is that of an Arctic tundra. Refined on Gentle Clouds (disc two) is similar to the first disc, but it is fuller and more dramatic. It is not as dark and it is more desolate. This is a great set that will appeal to fans of
Brian Eno,
Robert Rich, and
Jeff Greinke. ~ Jim Brenholts