Synthesist Steve Roach has released a new album, Skeleton Keys, that explores the ambient side of analog modular synthesis.

In early 2014, Roach set out to create his ideal large format modular synthesizer­/sequencer-based system, shown above. Roach adds that, “The instant this system was in place, the compulsion to create was unleashed.”

Skeleton Keys is 74-minute album, recorded using a Synthesizers.com large-format analog modular synthesizer­/sequencer-based system. Roach describes the pieces on Skeleton Keys as ‘mind-expanding spiraling mandalas-of-sound, made from interwoven tapestries of melody, rhythm, tone and musical space’.

“Skeleton Keys connects directly to my first love in electronic music,” says Roach. “This form of music creates a living portal to a unique place in consciousness, emotion, body awareness and expansion of perception. It’s a place that can only be reached by way of this genre and these instruments, in particular the sequencer: a tool common within electronic music since early in its inception. I have been obsessed with the sound this instrument facilitates since my arrival as a composer in the late 70’s.”

You can preview Skeleton Keys below:

[bandcamp width=100% height=120 album=1857902896 size=large bgcol=ffffff linkcol=0687f5 tracklist=false artwork=small]

Skeleton Keys is available via Roach’s site.