A Re-imagining of Metallic Spheres In Colour by The Orb and David Gilmour
Pink Floyd fans, ambient lovers, and music aficionados, there’s a shimmering new release on the horizon! The 2010 album, Metallic Spheres, a collaborative piece by The Orb and David Gilmour, is getting a fresh coat of sonic paint. Set to be released on 29th September 2023, “Metallic Spheres In Colour” is not just a re-release but a re-imagining such is the trend.
| Format | Purchase Links |
|---|---|
| Vinyl | Amazon.co.uk | Amazon.com |
| CD | Amazon.co.uk | Amazon.com |
| Digital/360RA/Dolby Atmos/Streaming Version | TBC |
A Brief Backstory
The original Metallic Spheres album was serendipitously birthed. It began in 2009 when David Gilmour recorded the Graham Nash track Chicago/Change The World. This single, an emblematic stand against the extradition of British Hacker Gary McKinnon, featured a star-studded lineup including Chrissie Hynde, Bob Geldof, and McKinnon himself.
Yet, the track’s journey didn’t end there. Ambient pioneers The Orb and producer Youth decided to remix the track. As a result, David Gilmour was ushered into Youth’s studio, leading to the creation of two ambient suites – the 28-minute Metallic and the 20-minute Spheres. This became the foundational album we know today as Metallic Spheres. Interestingly, the album was one of the first major releases to embrace the 3D60 Audio, making it a treasure trove for headphone enthusiasts.
Reimagination: Metallic Spheres In Colour
Producer Youth, reminiscing about the first version, recalled the musical philosophy they adhered to: a crossbreed of the Blade Runner soundtrack and Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here. Yet, there was a feeling that Alex Paterson, The Orb’s founder, had more to give. This feeling led to the birth of “Metallic Spheres In Colour”. Youth’s proposition to remix it as an “Orb classic” promises a listening experience that’s almost like discovering a brand new album.
The Formats Available and Track Listings
Track List:
LP Version:
- Round Side: Seamless Solar Spheres Of Affection Mix (20.07)
- Flat Side: Seamlessly Martian Spheres Of Reflection Mix (19.44)
CD Version:
- Seamless Solar Spheres Of Affection Mix (20.07)
- Seamlessly Martian Spheres Of Reflection Mix (19.44)
Digital/360RA/Dolby Atmos/Streaming Version:
- Seamless Solar Spheres Of Affection Mix Movement 1 (11.29)
- Seamless Solar Spheres Of Affection Mix Movement 2 (8.52)
- Seamlessly Martian Spheres Of Reflection Mix Movement 1 (10.47)
- Seamlessly Martian Spheres Of Reflection Mix Movement 2 (09.16)
The Orb and David Gilmour: A Look Back
The Orb, renowned for their ambient and experimental music, have been pioneers in the scene since the late 1980s. Notable albums include “U.F.Orb”, “Orblivion”, and “Moonbuilding 2703 AD”. David Gilmour, on the other hand, is a household name, primarily due to his role as the lead guitarist and co-lead vocalist of Pink Floyd. Apart from classics with Pink Floyd, Gilmour has solo masterpieces such as “On An Island” and “Rattle That Lock”.
Re-imagined Albums: A Growing Trend
The concept of reimagining or remixing albums isn’t new. Classics like The Beatles’ “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” and “The White Album” have received remixed versions. These projects often allow artists to re-explore their work, providing fans with a fresh take on beloved tracks.
Reception of the Original Metallic Spheres
Upon its release in 2010, Metallic Spheres received a mixed reception. Critics lauded the album for its experimental spirit, fusion of Gilmour’s iconic guitar work with The Orb’s ambient soundscape. However, some felt the album, while sonically rich, lacked the cohesiveness of other Orb or Gilmour projects.
“Metallic Spheres In Colour” promises to be a transformative experience, merging the old with a new vision. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the original or new to this collaboration, this reimagined piece warrants a listen.
Releasing on 29th September. Pre-order now to embark on this sonic journey!
Visit David Gilmour’s Official Website
| Format | Purchase Links |
|---|---|
| Vinyl | Amazon.co.uk | Amazon.com |
| CD | Amazon.co.uk | Amazon.com |
| Digital/360RA/Dolby Atmos/Streaming Version | TBC |
