Innovative sounds: Rare album released by director David Lynch

Kelis leaves behind "Milkshake" for her solid album "Food," and various artists bring the sounds of space to Earth

Published April 22, 2014 3:40PM (EDT)

Various Artists: "Space Project"

This album, released by Lefse Records, combines the musical prowess of artists like Mutual Benefit, the Antlers, Spiritualized, Beach House and Youth Lagoon with the celestial sounds of space. The raw material for these audio tracks was recorded by Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 during their late 1970s/1980s exploration of Jupiter and Saturn and then deep space. Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 have a wide variety of recording devices, but they don't pick up sounds -- they pick up magnetospheres and the fluctuation of electromagnetic radiation. The end result of the folding of space sounds into songs is lovely, floating and expansive. Yet at times there is a sense of loneliness -- missing that terrestrial glint of emotion.

David Lynch: "The Air Is on Fire"

If you were lucky enough to attend the 2007 exhibition of David Lynch's visual art at a gallery in Paris, you've heard "The Air Is on Fire." The 41-minute album, created with sound editor Dean Hurley, played in the background of the show. As a stand-alone (and not a companion piece to his visual art) the sound is still capable of filling a space conjuring images and emotions. The album was released by Sacred Bones on Record Store Day.

Kelis: "Food"

Do you remember the song "Milkshake"? The upbeat song that left you knowing that a "milkshake" wasn't a drink made with milk, chocolate and ice cream? Well, artist Kelis is back with a more soulful (yet still edible-titled) album, "Food." Though the singer is also a trained chef this album is no more about food than "Milkshake" was about, well ... milkshakes. In this heartfelt album Kelis' raspy voice explicates on what nourishment we need for the soul -- love, forgiveness, confidence, family.


By Sarah Gray

Sarah Gray is an assistant editor at Salon, focusing on innovation. Follow @sarahhhgray or email sgray@salon.com.

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Cool Culture David Lynch Innovative Sounds Kelis Music New Albums Video