David Sylvian – Gone to Earth

David Sylvain’s first taste of international acclaim came by way of his band Japan. Struggling to win over fans in the mid 70’s UK punk era, Japan ironically first found fame in Tokyo, and quickly integrated into the city’s vibrant pop scene and legendary avant-garde music culture that bubbled wildly below the surface. Sylvain would meet Ryuichi Sakamoto during his Japan days, and the two artists continue to share a lifelong creative partnership. Gone to Earth is Sylvain’s third solo release, and it’s a prolific showing with 17 tracks spread across two discs. Disc 1 contains Sylvian’s signature emotive vocal style while Disc 2 is completely instrumental. The tracks bleed effortlessly from one into another, tied together by underlying ominous backdrop that sets the stage beautifully for Sylvian’s poetic delivery on vocals, guitar, and keyboards.

– Tana Yonas

Recommended – A1 Taking The Veil, B2 River Man, Disc 2