I tend to associate records with particular seasons of the year, and 'Wenn der Südwind weht' is a beautifully understated record that I often spin in the months of April and May. It has a breezy, almost childlike daydream vibe to it that aptly suits the title, which translates to 'When the Southwind Blows' in English.

Hans-Joachim Roedelius is a German composer who was a member of the legendary krautrock bands Cluster and Harmonia. Beginning in the late 1970s, his solo career would produce seminal electronic/ambient works such as this as well as fruitful collaborations with musicians across a variety of genres, perhaps most notably with Brian Eno. 'Wenn der Sudwind weht' was first released in 1981 during what was arguably the peak of his creative output. Critics often cite this record, either with compliment or derision, as Roedelius' most accessible album.

This record just always seems to strike a perfect balance of calm, nostalgia, and energetic springtime renewal for me. it might make for a pleasant soundtrack to an afternoon of backyard playtime with your kids during quarantine, or, similar to Mort Garson's 'Plantasia', a musical companion while gardening and landscaping. Enjoy!

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LUKE SCHNEIDER'S AMBIENT NEW AGE ALBUM 'ALTAR OF HARMONY' OUT MAY 15