Synth Single Review: "Valley Breeze" by Brian Sangmeister

Brian Sangmeister wrote this track after being inspired by a trip to the mountains of Colorado. It takes full advantage of the ability of synths to evoke a wide variety of moods and sensations to paint images of fresh breezes blowing from peaks and sweeping across alpine valley meadows.

There were some interesting choices in the sound department on Valley Breeze. I was especially interested to hear that he used tabla in the percussion sounds as well as a synth that calls to mind a flute or perhaps even a piccolo. I also felt that the whole track was suffused with a very open, clear feeling. I think that it reflects the mountains that Brian Sangmeister was trying to evoke with this track.

Valley Breeze begins with bright pulses of string-like synth, full of warmth and rising thermals. It feels very light and spacious. A singing, positive piano line is underpinned by swells of bass and tabla percussion. I love the sound of the tabla and it works very nicely here along with those rising, uplifting piano chords. Now high synth chimes dance over the bass and that steady tabla beat.

There’s a flute-like quality to the next high synth that comes in. It does indeed evoke the feeling of a flying mountain breeze as it wanders and moves delicately over the bass. All of the elements come together to create flow and motion, I felt cleansed and refreshed by the palette of sounds that Brian Sangmeister uses on this track.

I have always said that I enjoy music that can evoke a strong mood and create great imagery. I’d say that Valley Breeze definitely scores on those points. It was an enjoyable listen to say the least.