400 Lonely Things is an ongoing musical effort that is very difficult to nail down or categorize. Its shimmering soundscapes employ experimental ambient music, but most tracks include repeating rhythmic structures. Some add synthesized beats and muted voiceovers that give Subdivisions an odd catchiness.
Nonetheless, the album evolves over 12 tracks of varying lengths, with all under 10 minutes. Flute-based or piano melodies combine with static and field recordings of nature. Echoing themes evoke a sense of disquiet. Rumbling bass, samples, and scattered electronic loops have a similar result. While a diverse set of instrumentation and sounds are represented, none dominate the mix. This gives each track a unique feel despite the aforementioned repetitiveness.
In its enigmatic blend of brightness and disorientation, Subdivisions becomes an intriguingly layered experience. Although it could easily be used as a soundtrack for moments of cinematic horror, the album’s defining quality lies more in its hypnotic ambiguity than in straightforward gloominess. Turning up the volume reveals intricate sonic details, inviting repeated exploration and deeper immersion into 400 Lonely Things’ uniquely crafted atmospheres.
