By Joe Forrest in Culture — 12 Jan 2025

A Johann Johannsen Appreciation Post

If you've never heard of nu-classical, then you want to read this spotlight.

Johann Johannsen's music is like the soundtrack to the universe - deep, expansive, and filled with this sort of cosmic wonder.

It's the kind of music that makes you feel like you're floating through space or pondering life's big questions while staring at the stars.

If you're diving into his work, you've got to start with "Orphée". The way he blends orchestral sounds with electronic elements is just mesmerizing. Tracks like "A Song for Europa" are perfect for those late-night introspective sessions or when you're just trying to chill out after a long day.

Then there's "Arrival", the movie score. Even if you haven't seen the film, the music stands on its own. "Heptapod B" and "On the Nature of Daylight" are tracks that'll give you goosebumps with their haunting beauty. They capture the essence of discovery and the bittersweetness of understanding.

For something a bit more experimental, "Fordlandia" is a must. It's got this industrial yet poetic vibe. "Melodia (Guidelines for a Space Propulsion Vehicle)" feels like the blueprint for some futuristic journey.

And if you're in the mood for something that feels like it's been sent from another dimension, check out "IBM 1401, A User's Manual". The track "Part 1 / IBM 1401 Processing Unit" uses sounds from old computer technology, creating an eerie yet captivating atmosphere.

Johann Johannsen's music is all about exploring the intersection between technology and emotion, sound and silence. It's not just background music; it's an experience. So, throw on some headphones, dim the lights, and let his compositions take you on a journey where time feels irrelevant, and every note tells a story.