I’ve been a fan of Max Würden’s for a long time now, and he’s pretty much the most consistent contributor to Kompakt’s Pop Ambient Series over the years and one I look forward to hearing the most. No wonder, Max is a talented and skilled producer who finds joy in the details with his own meticulous and unique approach to music. This album is a classic to my own ears, echoing early chill-out era alongside the likes of more epic space-inspired ambient music such as Biosphere and Alva Noto - Format has got a bit of everything.
Format draws from its Latin origin: “formatus”, meaning “to be formed”. Over two years, Germany’s Max Würden produced a variety of tracks using completely different approaches. It wasn’t until they were placed together in unison that the strengths from the variety of productions came together.
Max’s studio recordings lined up alongside live performances; field recordings of foot-steps and sounds from deep forests amongst broken leaves and custom synthesizers; processed guitar-loops weave amongst soaring ambient pads and energetic driving analog pulses segue classic 90’s ambient depicting the very furthest reaches of space. Max's abstract impressions were weaved together and Format was born.
The result captures the very best of Max’s multi-disciplinary techniques we’ve come to admire throughout his many productions and collaborations over the years with the likes of Thore Pfeiffer and his releases on Kompakt’s Pop Ambient series.
Format can be enjoyed as individual tracks, one mixed journey (digital) or as unique mixed-edits for vinyl. Featuring artwork by Noah M / Keep Adding, who unfolds the track’s unique individual elements from the front into one expansive inside gatefold. Mastered by Rafael Anton Irisarri @ Black Knoll Studio.
View the release page for more information and links to buy.
