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City Reading cover

City Reading

Air

Album 2003
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About this album

Sound: "A cinematic soundscape blending ambient electronica with spoken word, evoking a dreamlike narrative experience."

Where they were

By the time 'City Reading' was released in 2003, Air was already established as a prominent force in the electronica scene following their breakthrough album 'Moon Safari' in 1998. This project marked a departure from traditional song structures, showcasing their experimental approach to sound and storytelling, which they had been developing throughout the early 2000s.

Why it matters

The album is significant not only for its innovative blend of music and narration but also for its critical reception; it was praised for pushing the boundaries of what an album could be. 'City Reading' became recognized as a landmark work within the ambient genre, influencing subsequent artists in the field and enhancing Air's reputation as pioneers of cinematic sound.

Essential tracks

  • "Bird (Bird)" — Opening with expansive soundscapes and layered instrumentals, this track sets the atmospheric tone for the entire album.
  • "La puttana di Closingtown (Pat Cobhan alza gli occhi)" — This segment captures a poignant moment within the narrative structure, illustrating the intertwining of sound and story through its immersive ambiance.
  • "Caccia all’uomo (Il primo giorno)" — This track exemplifies Air's ability to create tension and drama through minimalistic arrangements, highlighting their unique take on storytelling through music.

Release Date

January 1, 2003

Artist Origin

France

Tracklist

  1. 1 Bird (Bird) 7:20
  2. 2 La puttana di Closingtown (Prologo per la puttana di Closingtown) 2:40
  3. 3 La puttana di Closingtown (Se vuoi capire la loro storia) 1:04
  4. 4 La puttana di Closingtown (Pat Cobhan ride) 4:13
  5. 5 La puttana di Closingtown (Fanny scivola con le labbra) 2:00
  6. 6 La puttana di Closingtown (Pat Cobhan alza gli occhi) 1:23
  7. 7 La puttana di Closingtown (Young) 2:35
  8. 8 La puttana di Closingtown (’Affanculo) 4:12
  9. 9 La puttana di Closingtown (Quell’uomo bara, dice) 1:38
  10. 10 La puttana di Closingtown (Finale) 1:35
  11. 11 Caccia all’uomo (Prologo) 3:20
  12. 12 Caccia all’uomo (Il primo giorno) 3:39
  13. 13 Caccia all’uomo (Il secondo giorno) 4:57
  14. 14 Caccia all’uomo (Il terzo giorno) 5:34
  15. 15 Caccia all’uomo (L’urlo) 1:16
  16. 16 Caccia all’uomo (Mondo sparito) 0:54
  17. 17 Caccia all’uomo (Il quarto giorno) 4:20
  18. 18 Caccia all’uomo (Macchie di sangue) 1:12
  19. 19 Caccia all’uomo (Musica) 3:07

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