Metascore
75

Generally favorable reviews - based on 12 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 12
  2. Negative: 0 out of 12
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  1. 60
    A product of lockdown isolation, it comprises two lengthy soundscapes that blend his trademark layers of coruscating noise with sounds found on his travels over the past decade. Set out of context, these field recordings become for the most part wilfully abstract and very much open to interpretation.
  2. Feb 26, 2021
    60
    Far from a dud, and most definitely something that will divide audiences rather than be seen as a unanimous failure or success, In Fernaux nevertheless reveals itself to be the work of an artist that appears to be enduring a period of reflection, rather than looking forward to the future.
  3. 60
    In Ferneaux is arguably Benjamin John Power’s most subdued effort under the Blanck Mass moniker. It’s a slower, more meditative affair which deviates significantly from its predecessors and whilst there are gleaming examples of Power’s sonic craftsmanship, they’re hindered by sections of profound aimlessness that move against the defined conceptual direction to be found elsewhere on the album.
  4. Feb 25, 2021
    60
    Ideas disintegrate before developing, awkwardly blending into the next, leading to occasionally aimless moments. At its best, though, it’s a riveting and subtle addition to an already impressive discography.
User Score
5.0

Mixed or average reviews- based on 4 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1 out of 4
  2. Negative: 2 out of 4
  1. Mar 4, 2021
    3
    There are some enjoyable moments on this album. Unfortunately they are heavily outweighed by the lo-fi "field recordings" and seeminglyThere are some enjoyable moments on this album. Unfortunately they are heavily outweighed by the lo-fi "field recordings" and seemingly interminable stretches of mid and high frequency noise, that are both unpleasant to listen to and rob the music of any texture or atmosphere.

    The artist's decision to combine the album into two circa twenty minute tracks also means that you can't isolate the better movements from the garbage.

    To further add insult to injury, the album ends with a snatched recording of (presumably) the artist swearing into his field mic.

    Check out the new album by A Winged Victory for the Sullen if you want an example of modern ambient music that won't shred your eardrums and generally ruin your afternoon.
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