“Descending is all about atmosphere and drift, but that doesn’t mean it’s boring. Guitarist Tim Motzer and touch guitarist Markus Reuter both have plenty of experience with ambient six-string sound, giving their pieces more backbone than most sonic clouds – the quieter work of David Torn is a touchstone. There’s nothing here that has any kind of real drive, mind you, but the leaders – joined by notable sidefolk, including percussionists Pat Mastelotto and Doug Hirlinger, flautist Theo Travis and pedal steel maestro BJ Cole – know how to add just enough filigrees, layers and details to require active listening. “Ritual Observance,” “Sound of the Sun” and the long, flowing “Emanuella” can hang in the air like aural mist if that’s what you prefer, but give them closer attention and the haunting textures will give back more than they ask for.”  Michael Toland The Big Takeover

*****

“Guitarist Robert Fripp often performs his ethereal ‘soundscapes’ concerts in churches, where he finds the quality of listening to be more attentive. Working in that area of ‘soundscapes’ where music is able to seem still and the equivalent of a meditative experience in a church, are the guitar duo of Tim Motzer and Markus Reuter, who like Fripp use electronics and loops to create their sublime ambience. Their basic sessions were recorded in Motzer’s studio in Philadelphia and during an Internet radio broadcast. Then they had special guests enhance their work, including acclaimed British pedal steel player BJ Cole, who’s gorgeous tones feature on four of the six pieces. Also in the mix is Gong flautist Theo Travis, who contributed beautiful melodies and chordal loops to the opening two tracks. This fine ambient release is available as a CD from the label’s website and as a digital download from iTunes and eMusic.” Chris Twomey Tandom

*****