James Heather’s latest offering, “Invisible Forces Reworks,” unfolds as a collection of meticulously crafted reinterpretations featuring a diverse array of artists. Among them, KMRU takes the helm with the rework of “Ancestral Future Now,” creating an atmospheric texture that gradually builds in volume and intensity. The piano, a cornerstone of Heather’s signature “Pulse Music,” gains stature and complexity over a drone harmony, while melodic lines weave through the mix, adding layers of harmonic intricacy.
The album further unfolds with the Steven Weston remix of “Beginnings,” where a stuttering and bouncing synth, accompanied by delay lines, underpins a melodic piano arpeggio. The synth texture gains prominence, leading to an engaging drum beat infused with forward-driving and positive synth vibes, all anchored by the enduring presence of the piano.
“Invisible Forces Reworks” is Heather’s curated selection of artists, ensembles, and composers who breathe new life into 11 tracks from his album and two EPs. This musical evolution reframes Heather’s original compositions by drawing inspiration from ambient, classical, electronic, jazz, and rock genres.
KMRU’s rework exemplifies this transformation, saturating “Ancestral Future Now” with detailed noise, distortion, and stretched samples. Heather’s collaboration with a range of talents showcases the versatility of his compositions, seamlessly blending genres and inviting listeners into an auditory exploration.
Heather’s “Pulse Music” approach, rooted in instinctual piano playing influenced by classical, jazz, and electronic sensibilities, takes center stage. The album reflects his unique journey, from childhood composition lessons with his Grandad to his near-death experience that fueled his emergence as an artist.
With nominations and critical acclaim for his 2022 album, “Invisible Forces,” Heather continues to push boundaries. The “Reworks” series, a recurring venture for Heather, allows artists to interpret his work in fresh and inventive ways.
