Toronto-based ambient artist Alaskan Tapes, a.k.a. Brady Kendall, returns with his eighth album Something Ephemeral, released on September 20, 2024. Known for blending live instrumentation with delicate ambient soundscapes, Kendall explores the fleeting nature of existence in this introspective new project.
Rooted in the Japanese concept of “mono no aware,” which highlights the beauty in life’s impermanence, Something Ephemeral embodies simplicity and organic production. “The title literally means ‘something short-lived,’” Kendall explains. “I wanted to create shorter tracks, or at least shorter phrases that repeat, capturing that sense of transience.”
Organic Sounds and Human Touch
Alaskan Tapes’ music has always embraced imperfections, with Kendall emphasizing the human element in his production. “I like my music to feel human, like you’re listening to someone playing piano just downstairs in your house,” he says. For Something Ephemeral, he incorporated organic noise—subtle background hums and unpolished sounds—to add warmth and authenticity.
Experimenting with simplicity, Kendall focused on minimalism in both composition and production. Using generative techniques, he allowed random elements to guide his sound. “I recorded a short sample of sine notes and let it play at random intervals,” he explains. This method creates an ever-evolving sound, letting the music breathe and unfold naturally.
Something Ephemeral marks Kendall’s return to collaboration, featuring Japanese ambient artist Moshimoss on “When The Earth Yelled Back At Me” and Philadelphia’s Andrew Tasselmyer on “Wait.” These collaborations enhance the album’s atmospheric depth while staying true to Alaskan Tapes’ signature minimalism.
Kendall’s collaborations are a rare treat, showcasing a natural blend of styles. The result is a cohesive project that captures both his experimental spirit and his refined, cinematic approach to ambient music.
From Metal to Minimal
Kendall’s journey to Alaskan Tapes started far from ambient music. Originally a drummer in metal bands, he transitioned into the drum & bass scene before shifting to more minimal, drawn-out sounds. His early work as Alaskan Tapes emerged in 2016 with the EP Beyond the Streets and the full-length We All Speak in Poems. Since then, he has released eight albums in eight years, along with numerous film scores and sync compositions.
With each release, Kendall has refined his craft, gaining recognition from tastemakers like CBC Afterdark, KEXP Pacific Notions, and Nowness. His music has garnered hundreds of millions of streams and has been featured in award-winning music videos, including a nomination for the 2024 Prism Prize.
Known for his cinematic sound, Alaskan Tapes’ music videos have become an integral part of his artistic identity. His video for “Of Woods and Seas” earned a Top 10 spot at this year’s Prism Prize, highlighting the visual appeal of his work.
Kendall’s ability to combine music with stunning visuals has made his projects stand out in the ambient scene, earning Vimeo Staff Picks and recognition at numerous film and music festivals.
Continuing the Journey
Something Ephemeral solidifies Alaskan Tapes’ place in the ambient and neo-classical world. As Kendall continues to explore new techniques and collaborative efforts, his sound remains rooted in a human, organic quality that resonates deeply with listeners.
Listen to Something Ephemeral here.
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