Thomas Ciufo – The Rising Moon
Composer, improviser, and music technologist Thomas Ciufo used the stillness and disruption of the COVID-19 outbreak to return to his solo studio practice, creating the deeply contemplative work, The Rising Moon. Rooted in the electro-acoustic and ambient traditions, the album is a colossal sonic structure built from meticulous processing: Ciufo heavily layered recordings of acoustic instruments and voices, stacking them up into a 700-layer burrito of sound. This dense foundation was crafted using a combination of analog gear, rebuilt vintage tape machines, and a modern digital workstation. The blend of nostalgic, unpredictable analog texture and digital precision results in an Andromeda-esque ambience—a vast, powerful soundscape that invites listeners into a cathartic yet cerebral space. The philosophy underpinning the music, which Ciufo studied under his late mentor Pauline Oliveros, centers on deep listening and embracing the paradox of impermanence, finding clarity even within chaos.
The 10 tracks on The Rising Moon unfold gradually as a series of immersive sonic journeys, exploring emotional forces like loss, beauty, darkness, and light. Beginning with the drifting tonality of the title track, “The Rising Moon,” and “Still Arriving,” Ciufo beckons the listener to float in the expansive sonics. The album structure highlights tension and transition, notably in the evolving textures of “Motion / Stasis” and the evocative “Bardo (The Space Between),” which references the transitional states between life stages. The overall experience is described as both angelic and haunting, blending unique, nostalgic overtones with gorgeous sonic resonance. Ultimately, The Rising Moon is offered with compassion to those facing challenges, acting as a beautifully articulated musical plea for finding gratitude and grace while navigating a chaotic world.
Track list
1. The Rising Moon
2. Still Arriving
3. Motion / Stasis
4. The Day After the Day Before
5. Out of Silence
6. Light and Shadows
7. Bardo (The Space Between)
8. Turning the Wheel
9. The Quiet Sun
10. Loss and Acceptance (Still Listening)
Label: Neuma Catalog Number: 231 Format: CD-R Packaging: Mini-LP gatefold jacket Tracks: 10 Total Time: 57:45 Country: United States Released: 2025 More: Bandcamp
Text ©2025 Arcane Candy
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