Having dropped two of the most unique and imaginative Chillout tracks of 2023 with Wabi Sabi and Hanami, Ambient producer and sound designer Sambox and renowned cellist Anita Barbereau are hitting the ground running in 2024 with their new release, Sambox and Anita Barbereau – Imagination.
As is perhaps to be expected, the record is focused around Barbereau’s exceptional command of the cello, lending much space to the instrument’s soothing, mellow tones and the atmospheric vibe created as a result. We must not, however, forget Sambox’s contribution to the record, as it is arguably his less-is-more production style that lifts Imagination from an ordinary Chillout track to one that is definitely worthy of your attention. Such production techniques can also be heard on the artist’s 2023 EP Deep Time, which has since come to define the artist’s instantly recognizable chilled-out style.
Another notable feature of Sambox and Anita Barbereau – Imagination is its delicate, lilting piano part, with simple melodies being used to create an overarching melancholic feel that reflects the image on the record’s cover – that of a young child gazing out to sea, the sun rising in the distance. Indeed, it sounds as though the piece of music was partly inspired by the concept of childhood and reflection, with the two artists describing how they wanted the track to evoke “the purity of childhood, where every note sounds like a call to adventure, inspiring everyone to envision a better future.” And whilst this isn’t the most adventurous-sounding single you will ever hear, its peaceful, clean sound certainly makes it a track that omits a sense of purity and innocence.
Sometimes it’s good to be able to slow things down a little and take time to reflect on life and what’s happening around you. The downtempo, contemplative feel of Sambox and Anita Barbereau – Imagination allows you to do exactly that.
