Brian Eno & J. Peter Schwalm: Drawn From Life

Eno is one of my favorite artists and producers, so I usually pony up for every new release. Sometimes I'm a little disappointed lately, like with The Drop, where it just feels a bit uninspired. Drawn From Life is a much better affair, reminding me of the soundscapes on his Music For Films, the collaboration with Jah Wobble on Spinner and side 2 of Low. It's in the ambient vein but there's usually a rhythm track building along with the music. Laurie Anderson, Holger Czukay and Nell Catchpole make guest appearances too. They recorded this album at their home studios in London and Frankfurt, and provided us with one of the best of the recent Eno records. (www.astralwerks.com)