It still amazes me to this day how immersive the Ambient and Dark Ambient genres are. Although these genres typically expand upon minimalistic soundscapes, the fact that they deliver such a variety of unique expressions can be attributed to the plethora of well-versed artists and their ability to produce an insurmountable amount of audial visions. One of the premiere artists to venture into both genres is Derrick Stembridge. The mastermind behind projects such as Long The Night and Drifting In Silence delivers thought-provoking modulations that truly define what these genres are all about. I recently had the opportunity discuss these projects with him, and how his passion for ambient music commenced in the first place. Hope you enjoy this engaging interview and please support his accomplished musical endeavors.
1. Thank you so much for participating in this interview and I’m really excited to hear about your amazing projects. What inspired you to start creating Ambient music in the first place?
Thank you for having me. It’s truly an honor to be featured on Dungeon in Deep Space. My journey into ambient music began with a deep fascination for the subtle, often overlooked sounds in all types of music. These ambient elements create a rich tapestry that can evoke powerful emotions and vivid imagery. My early musical influences were quite diverse, ranging from classical compositions to modern electronic music. However, the common thread that intrigued me was the ambient layers within these genres—the sounds that painted the background and created a sense of space and depth.
Creating ambient music allows me to explore these layers more focused and expansively. It’s about building a sonic landscape where every sound contributes to the overall atmosphere, no matter how subtle. I believe ambient music is a vessel for storytelling without words, a medium that can transport listeners to different realms, evoke memories, and inspire introspection. It’s an immersive journey that encourages deep listening and emotional connection. The ability to take listeners on a voyage through sound, where they can lose themselves and find new perspectives, is what drives my passion for creating ambient music.
2. Can you tell us about the first Ambient piece you ever created?
My early musical explorations were rooted in the intensity and raw energy of Death Metal. During my formative years, I played keyboard and guitar in several bands, which was an exhilarating experience. However, I always felt drawn to the atmospheric elements within the music—the moments when chaos gave way to haunting melodies and expansive soundscapes.
While experimenting with a 4-track recorder, I discovered the vast possibilities of manipulating pitch and creating atmospheric textures. This was a pivotal moment for me. I began experimenting with layering sounds, slowing down tapes, and creating loops that would evolve. These early experiments were rudimentary but laid the foundation for my future work in ambient music. The transition from the structured aggression of Death Metal to the freeform exploration of ambient music was liberating. It allowed me to focus on sound’s emotional and spatial aspects, creating introspective and expansive pieces.
3. What artists and/or genres have helped you create this type of music?
Brian Eno’s “Music For Airports” was a seminal influence on my ambient work. Eno’s ability to craft serene, meditative soundscapes from simple elements was revolutionary. His philosophy of ambient music as an environmental experience that could enhance or alter the listener’s perception of their surroundings deeply resonated with me. On the darker side, early works by raison d’être, particularly “Enthralled by the Wind of Loneliness,” provided a blueprint for creating immersive, haunting environments. These artists taught me the power of minimalism and the profound impact of carefully sculpted sound.
The broader electronic music landscape, from pioneers like Tangerine Dream to modern innovators like Aphex Twin, has shaped my approach. The versatility and innovation within these genres demonstrated that ambient music could be both a standalone art form and a complementary layer within more complex compositions. These influences, combined with my background in metal and classical music, have allowed me to develop a unique style that blends serenity with intensity and structure with fluidity.
4. Are there any non-musical influences (e.g., literature, visual art, nature) that have helped shape your sound over the years?
Absolutely. My work as a photographer and graphic designer has profoundly influenced my music. Visual art, particularly the works of Dave McKean, HR Giger, and MC Escher, provides a thematic and aesthetic foundation for my soundscapes. McKean’s surreal collages, Giger’s biomechanical art, and Escher’s impossible structures inspire me to create music that challenges perception and evokes a sense of wonder and intrigue.
Nature also plays a crucial role in my creative process. The tranquility of a forest, the vastness of the ocean, or the isolation of a desolate landscape often inspire my compositions. I frequently incorporate field recordings of natural sounds—birds, wind, water—to create a sense of place and immersion. These elements add an organic layer to my music, grounding the abstract electronic textures in the real world.
Literature, too, mainly works that explore existential and surreal themes, helps shape my compositions’ narrative and emotional depth. Authors like Haruki Murakami, with his blend of the mundane and the fantastical, and Franz Kafka, with his explorations of the human condition, provide a rich source of inspiration for creating music that is both introspective and otherworldly.
5. Let’s talk a little bit about Drifting In Silence. What makes this project different from your other projects?
Drifting in Silence represents the core of my ambient explorations. Unlike my other projects, which delve into Dark Ambient and various electronic genres, It is pure ambient. I focus on creating serene, expansive soundscapes, encouraging introspection and emotional connection. This project is about capturing the essence of tranquility and transporting listeners to meditative reflection.
Drifting In Silence allows me to delve deeply into the nuances of ambient sound, exploring how different textures and tones can interact to create a cohesive and immersive listening experience. The project is a testament to my belief in the power of ambient music to evoke a wide range of emotions, from calm and relaxation to introspection and contemplation. It’s a space where I can experiment with sound in its purest form, free from the constraints of traditional song structures and genres.
6. Drifting In Silence has quite the extensive catalog? What are some of your most proud recordings with this project?
“Truth” is a cornerstone of my work, encapsulating the origins of my ambient sound. It represents a pivotal moment in my musical journey where I began to embrace the ambient genre and explore its potential fully. The track is built on layers of atmospheric textures, creating an immersive and evocative soundscape. “Dawn,” on the other hand, stands out as the moment where I truly honed the Drifting In Silence sound. The layering techniques I used in “Dawn” have become a hallmark of my style, allowing me to create rich, multi-dimensional soundscapes that invite listeners to lose themselves in the music.
These tracks represent significant milestones in my journey, reflecting both my personal growth and the evolution of my sound. They capture the essence of Drifting In Silence—creating music transcending boundaries and taking listeners on a journey of discovery and introspection.
7. I’m interested in learning more about how the “King’s Cross” track came about. It’s an amazing Pet Shop Boys cover, but what brought on this idea in the first place?
“King’s Cross” has always captivated me with its haunting strings and poignant melody. Throughout the years, I found myself repeatedly drawn to its sonic qualities, envisioning how it might sound within an ambient framework. The original track has a depth and emotional resonance that could be further explored through ambient music. Covering “King’s Cross” allowed me to delve into its emotional core, transforming its essence while maintaining its original impact.
The reinterpreting of this track was both a challenge and a profoundly satisfying creative endeavor. I aimed to strip the song down to its most fundamental elements, rebuilding it with layers of ambient textures and atmospheric effects. The result is a version that pays homage to the original while offering a new perspective, inviting listeners to experience the song entirely differently.
8. Your latest album, ‘Winter’s Past’ also contains a Madonna cover (“Live To Tell”). What was it about that song that made you think, “hmm, I bet I could transform this into an Ambient masterpiece?”
“Live To Tell,” with its evocative piano phrasing and atmospheric qualities, has always resonated with me. Patrick Leonard’s composition for the movie “At Close Range” created a profound emotional backdrop that I felt could be further explored in an ambient context. The original track’s haunting melody and introspective lyrics provided a perfect foundation for an ambient reinterpretation.
Covering “Live To Tell” was a way to pay homage to my early musical influences while reinterpreting the song through the lens of ambient music. I aimed to capture the emotional depth and complexity of the original, transforming it into a piece that is both familiar and new. This process involved deconstructing the song’s elements, focusing on its atmospheric qualities, and rebuilding it with ambient textures and effects. The result is a track that invites listeners to explore its emotional landscape in a new and immersive way.
9. Let’s switch gears to Long The Night. This project seems more drone oriented and definitely darker than Drifting In Silence. Was this project created to keep the two sounds separated from each other?
Long The Night was born from Drifting In Silence’s darker, more experimental sessions. I wanted to create a distinct space to explore Dark Ambient, and drone sounds fully. This project allows me to channel influences like raison d’être and other classic Dark Ambient artists, incorporating modern techniques with samples and field recordings. Long The Night is about delving into the depths of sound, exploring the shadows and the unknown.
Creating Long The Night was a way to keep my artistic vision clear and focused. By separating the darker elements from Drifting In Silence, I fully immersed myself in the world of Dark Ambient and drone music. This project explores the more mysterious and haunting aspects of sound, where I can push the boundaries of what ambient music can be. It’s about creating an immersive experience that challenges listeners to confront the darker side of their emotions and imagination.
10. I really love the track “Emotions Without Logic” (from ‘Shadows Of Discretion And Unspoken Truths’). It has a really distant and dystopian feel to it. What was it like to record and produce that track?
“Emotions Without Logic” is a deeply personal track that takes the listener through turbulent emotions and serene resolutions. It involved extensive field recordings to capture the natural elements and textures that define its atmosphere. I wanted to create a soundscape that felt distant and immediate, evoking a sense of place and emotion that transports the listener to another world.
The process of creating this track was both challenging and rewarding. I spent significant time layering sounds, experimenting with different textures, and manipulating field recordings to achieve the desired effect. The goal was to create a piece that felt like a journey through a storm, with waves crashing around you, leading to a distant calm where the rain begins to fall gently. This track is a testament to the power of sound to evoke memories and emotions, creating an immersive experience that resonates deeply with the listener.
11. You also run and operate the Labile Records label that features several other fantastic acts. What would you say your mission statement is for this label?
Labile Records was created to promote and distribute my Drifting In Silence recordings, but it has grown into a collaborative family of like-minded artists. We aim to seek out, develop, and distribute innovative music and visual art. We strive to incorporate our artists’ personal goals, cultures, and emotions into our products and marketing strategies, providing unwavering support and the best opportunities on both global and regional scales. We also aim to stay informed about changes in the music industry, acting as a bridge between our artists and the broader market.
Labile Records fosters a community of artists who share a passion for pushing the boundaries of music and art. We support our artists’ creative visions and help them achieve their goals through innovative marketing strategies, distribution networks, or collaborative projects. Our mission is to be a platform for artistic expression where artists can explore new ideas, experiment with different sounds, and connect with a global audience. We are committed to promoting the best opportunities for our recording artists, honoring their unique voices and perspectives, and contributing to the ongoing evolution of music and art.
12. How do you see the Ambient/Dark Ambient community evolving, and what role do you hope to play in it?
The ambient and Dark Ambient community has grown significantly, thanks partly to technological advancements that make music production more accessible. This trend continues, with more artists exploring these genres and pushing their boundaries. My role is to continue innovating and introducing new sounds and techniques while honoring the genre’s roots. I aim to inspire and support emerging artists, contributing to the community’s evolution and helping shape its future.
The ambient and Dark Ambient genres are entering a new phase of growth and innovation. The accessibility of digital recording tools and platforms has democratized music production, allowing more artists to experiment and share their work. This has led to a vibrant and diverse community of creators pushing the boundaries of what ambient music can be. My goal is to be a pioneer in this space, continuing to explore new sonic territories and inspire others to do the same. By staying true to the genre’s roots while embracing new technologies and techniques, I hope to contribute to the ongoing evolution of ambient and Dark Ambient music, fostering a community of artists passionate about creating immersive, transformative experiences through sound.
13. What are some of the biggest challenges you face as a Dark Ambient artist?
Promotion remains a significant challenge. While the community is growing, it’s still relatively small, making it difficult to reach a wider audience. Navigating the niche market and finding effective ways to promote my music requires constant creativity and adaptability. Additionally, the nature of Dark Ambient music, which often focuses on subtle, atmospheric elements, can make it challenging to capture the attention of listeners who are more accustomed to mainstream genres.
Another challenge is balancing the need for artistic integrity with the market’s demands. Dark Ambient music is often deeply personal and reflective, making it difficult to conform to commercial expectations. Finding the right balance between staying true to my artistic vision and making my music accessible to a broader audience is an ongoing struggle. However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation and growth, pushing me to find new ways to connect with listeners and share my work.
14. What instruments and equipment do you use to create your mesmerizing soundscapes? Are there any particular techniques or effects you frequently use in your compositions?
My setup evolves with each album, but I primarily use Logic Pro as my DAW, with the Waldorf Quantum as my primary controller. I incorporate a variety of guitar pedals from Strymon, custom samples played through Native Instruments Kontakt, and Make Noise Modular Gear for unique textures. Techniques like layering, pitch manipulation, and field recordings are central to my process, allowing me to create complex, immersive soundscapes.
The use of field recordings is an essential aspect of my work. I often venture into nature to capture sounds that can add a unique, organic element to my compositions. These recordings are then processed and manipulated to create textures and atmospheres that enhance the emotional impact of the music. Additionally, I experiment with various effects and techniques to develop a sense of space and depth, using reverb, delay, and modulation to sculpt the sound and create a three-dimensional listening experience. This approach allows me to blend synthetic and natural elements, creating a rich and immersive sonic landscape.
15. How do you maintain a balance between your artistic vision and the expectations of your audience (if any)?
Maintaining a balance between my artistic vision and audience expectations involves staying true to my creative instincts while remaining open to feedback and collaboration. I strive to create music that resonates deeply with listeners, fostering a connection that transcends expectations. This means continuously evolving my sound and exploring new creative avenues while honoring the core elements that define my music.
I believe that authenticity is key to maintaining this balance. By staying true to my artistic vision and creating music that genuinely reflects my emotions and experiences, I can connect with listeners on a deeper level. At the same time, I value the input and feedback of my audience, as it provides valuable insights into how my music is received and helps me grow as an artist. This dynamic interplay between personal expression and audience engagement is what drives my creative process, allowing me to create music that is both meaningful and accessible.
16. What advice would you give to someone starting out in the Dark Ambient genre?
Start by immersing yourself in the genre’s origins. Study the foundational techniques and listen to classic and contemporary works to understand the genre’s evolution. This will help you develop a well-rounded perspective and find your unique voice. Don’t be afraid to experiment and push boundaries; innovation is critical in creating compelling Dark Ambient music.
Developing a solid understanding of sound design and production techniques is also essential. Dark Ambient music relies heavily on texture and atmosphere, so learning how to manipulate and layer sounds effectively is crucial. Invest time exploring different tools and technologies, and don’t hesitate to experiment with unconventional methods. Finally, be patient and persistent. The Dark Ambient genre is niche and can be challenging to break into, but with dedication and a willingness to explore new ideas, you can create music that stands out and resonates with listeners.
17. Can you share any details about upcoming projects or releases? Are there any new directions or experiments you’re excited to explore in future releases?
I recently released a captivating album titled All of My Faults Laid Bare with my friend Chris George for our project Brighten The Corner. This work elegantly traverses ambient and dark realms, showcasing our combined creative vision. I’m deeply immersed in crafting a new Drifting In Silence album, Echos Beyond, in collaboration with Suseti. This album is a journey into new sonic territories while staying true to my ambient roots. It delves deeply into field recordings and organic textures, seamlessly blending them with electronic elements to create a rich, immersive soundscape.
Later this year, I plan to release another Long The Night album, which will further explore the depths of dark ambient and drone sounds. This upcoming release will feature innovative techniques and experiments in sound manipulation, pushing the boundaries of ambient music even further.
These projects represent exciting new directions and experimental ventures that I am thrilled to share with my audience. These forthcoming releases reflect my constant quest to explore new ideas and evolve my sound. I eagerly anticipate how listeners will respond to these new explorations and look forward to continuing to push the limits of ambient and dark ambient music.
18. I really appreciate your time and of course all of the killer music that produce and release. Do you have any final thoughts for those that may be reading this?
Thank you for your support and for listening. Your engagement and enthusiasm keep the ambient and Dark Ambient communities thriving. Stay curious, explore new sounds, and never stop seeking out the music that moves you. Your support helps artists like myself continue to innovate and share our creative visions with the world.
For those reading this, I encourage you to dive deep into the world of ambient music. Explore these genres’ vast sound landscapes, and don’t be afraid to venture into new and unfamiliar territories. Music is a journey, and each piece has the potential to take you somewhere new. Thank you for being part of this journey, and I look forward to sharing more music with you in the future.
Links:
https://derrickstembridge.bandcamp.com/
https://longthenight.bandcamp.com/
https://driftinginsilence.bandcamp.com
https://labilerecords.bandcamp.com/
https://www.instagram.com/longthenight?igsh=MTJtOGhqeW0xMHhvcw==
