From One to Eight by 58918012

Minimalism starts with a set of restrictions, either self-imposed or circumstantially required, that force artists to rethink their methods of realizing their ideas. In an instance of a self-imposed challenge, the new album From One to Eight by Ukranian experimental electronic artist 58918012 presents a series of ambient works that each include a greater number of notes than the last. The first track only uses one note, the second uses two, and so on, forcing the artist to rely on timbre, stereo effects, and rhythm to create musical interest. From the impressive foundation of the first couple of tracks that feel complete despite only containing one or two notes, the record blossoms into its full potential, proving that the addition of colors to the palette can still elevate an already solid artistic work. To cap the whole project off, the eighth track consists strictly of eight sine waves, providing room for these waves’ natural overtones to emerge and flesh out the piece. Pulling such beauty out of such a rigid and unforgiving concept requires a keen artistic eye, making From One to Eight a commendable achievement.