ASTHMATIC KITTY
The relationship between Sufjan Stevens and Lowell Brams runs deep. Brams is the Lowell of Carrie & Lowell, former husband of Stevens’ troubled mother and co-founder of Asthmatic Kitty. He’s also a musician in his own right, and Aporia marks his second collaboration with his stepson after Stevens previously worked on Brams’ Music For Insomnia. Edited from jams compiled over years, largely instrumental and influenced by Vangelis, Boards Of Canada and Eno, this isn’t a record for anyone hoping for new songs. But for those willing to take a chance on experimental projects, the music here is melodic, assured and at points stately – remarkable considering how few of Aporia’s 21 tracks break three minutes.