About this item

Music From Memory is delighted to present ‘Elevations’, a new album from Manchester based artist Tom Burford, aka Contours.

Drawing heavily on his background as a drummer and percussionist, ‘Elevations’ began as an exploration of the Balafon, a Malian tuned percussion instrument, before organically growing into its final form; a delicate suite of compositions centered around rhythmical interactions of percussion, synthesizer and strings.

Recorded during the pandemic and the period following, the album reflects a desire to lose oneself in the expanse of nature - the title ‘Elevations’ being a direct nod to the mountainous area of Cumbria where Tom grew up. The album also represents the joy of creating with friends; it features performances from several of his musical contemporaries, many of which were recorded at his home in Manchester. Slowly taking shape, the final result is a record that seamlessly blends electronic and acoustic, operating at the intersection of minimalism, jazz, fourth world and contemporary classical music.

STAFF COMMENTS

Matt says: Serenity, decadence and Reichian repetition combine when Manchester whizz kid Tom Burford tinkers with his instruments. A widely educated and well travelled muso with a keen love of nature - all these influences and inspirations combine to a natural zenith on "Elevations" which finds a spiritual habitat on the esteemed Music From Memory. Magical.

TRACK LISTING

Bike Shed
Elevation 2
Elevation 2
Elevation 3
Balafon C
Pots
Arp Phase