Regular TSP fave Mark Vernon here with Otoconia (GRANNY RECORDS GRANNY 44) – his second release for this small-run Greek label of experimental music.
“Something a bit different” is the message on his hand-penned note. He might be referring to his use of the EMS Synthi 100 on this 51:08 single piece, which would indeed be something of a departure for this composer who I associate so closely with magnetic tapes, found sounds, and near-obsolete audio hardware. He’s blended the synth with field recordings in this work, which at one level I am prepared to take as a clinical study of the phenomenon of balance. Otoconia are also called “ear stones” – these microscopic rocks which float around the inner ear of the human being are what keeps us from falling over. Although “sense of balance” might seem hard to define, it is in fact a biological thing, and if I had time I would recount more interesting facts about the vestibular system.
In shrinking himself down to this microscopic size, Vernon aligns himself with his previous records that have attempted similar “Fantastic Voyage” moments, for instance with heating vents, radiators, hospital equipment, and even bathroom plumbing. But now here he is in his own private Proteus, looking for clues about observing the flight of these specks of calcium carbonate. Mark Vernon might be aiming to represent in sound something about this condition, or its effects, but the press release also claims he is doing something to disrupt time – or at any rate “dissolve” it. So far I’m reminded of the Swedish electronic drone maestro Jarl who often seems preoccupied with mental states and visual / audio perceptive mechanisms of the fragile human frame, but Jarl always uses this as a starting point for very disturbing, distressing episodes. Vernon’s Otoconia, conversely, is warm and welcoming, and you can happily enjoy this aesthetic experience without dreading any sudden manifestations of the unknown.
With its minimal pulsations and long-form mode, this is a fitting wreath to lay at the grave of Eliane Radigue. After hearing this one, I was still able to stand upright, but for how long? (12/03/2025)