On “Sea of Rains,” Erik Carlson, aka Area C, was commissioned by NASA Rhode Island Space Grant Consortium and the Museum of Natural History in Providence to compose this score for the exhibit Mission Moon: past, present, future. Using visual references as touchstones for setting this drifting, almost weightless expression of near pure ambiance, Carlson weaves a beautiful narrative which characterizes our satellite with grace.

The visual references include “photographs from various Apollo missions” as well as large-scale 3-D images and high definition video from Japan's Selene orbiter. Completing this concept recording, Carlson uses radio transmissions of astronauts to supplement cello, guitar, organ and analog drum machine.

While the recording provides a perfect aural experience to accompany the exhibition, as a stand alone listening experience it lacks a little tension. However, fans of Eno's pure ambient period will most likely enjoy. 6/10 -- P. Somniferum (19 November, 2008)