“Discover an otherworldly musical odyssey through the depths of Dante’s Inferno as renowned composer and drummer Ruud Voesten releases his captivating new album, “Ambrosia.” From the grandeur of “Within a Forest Dark” to the unexpected twists of “Heresy,” Voesten’s instrumental masterpiece promises a mesmerizing and immersive journey that will leave you eagerly exploring the depths of his sonic exploration.”
Residing in Rotterdam, Netherlands, Ruud Voesten, a drummer and composer, was immersed in Dante Alighieri’s Inferno when the COVID-19 pandemic hit in March 2020. Inferno, a renowned medieval literary masterpiece, serves as the backdrop for Dante’s introspection into his humanity, society, and place within it as he navigates the ten rings of hell and confronts the seven deadly sins. Ruud harnessed Inferno as a creative catalyst and the lockdown as a driving force, embarking on a profound exploration of his personal connection to each of these seven vices. In contemplating themes like desire, rage, and betrayal, he unearthed a rich tapestry of connections, motivations, and sensations, which he later translated into his musical compositions.
Ruud Voesten’s latest musical masterpiece, “Ambrosia,” released on September 22, 2023, is an album that takes listeners on a captivating and evocative journey through the depths of Dante Alighieri’s Inferno. Inspired by themes of lust, anger, and violence, Voesten’s “Ambrosia” is a 12-track instrumental album that spans over an hour, immersing the audience in a world of sonic exploration.
“Ambrosia” begins its sonic journey with “Within a Forest Dark,” a track that sets the stage for the entire album. Ruud Voesten’s masterful use of the grand piano creates an atmosphere that envelops the listener, akin to the anticipation before the start of an action-packed movie in a darkened cinema. The piano’s rich and resonant tones vibrate all around you, creating a sense of grandeur and intrigue. As the track progresses, precisely at 1 minute and 31 seconds, the saxophone makes its entrance. This moment is a testament to Voesten’s compositional prowess, as the saxophone seamlessly blends with the other instruments, enhancing the overall depth of the piece. The rhythmic drumming, which acts as a backdrop, adds layers of complexity to the composition, making it impossible to resist getting lost in its intricacies. “Within a Forest Dark” serves as an enticing and immersive introduction to the album, leaving you eager to uncover what lies ahead.
“Enter Our Hero” presents a delightful departure from the previous track. It greets the listener with a captivating and enjoyable opening. The track unfolds with the harmonious union of the saxophone and grand piano, accompanied by rhythmic percussion. The infectious introduction is so captivating that it compels you to move your head slowly to the irresistible rhythm. At precisely the 2-minute mark, the bass takes center stage, drawing you even deeper into the track’s mesmerizing embrace. Voesten’s ability to seamlessly transition from one musical element to another showcases his technical prowess and keen sense of musical storytelling. “Enter Our Hero” is a testament to Voesten’s versatility as a composer and drummer, creating a piece that effortlessly engages and enthralls the listener.
Continuing the journey, “This is Fine” offers a change of pace and emotion. The track opens with the saxophone, creating a soothing and introspective atmosphere. The gentle play of the grand piano beneath adds layers of depth to the composition, inviting the listener to reflect on the nuances of the music. At the 2-minute and 40-second mark, an unexpected shift occurs—a slightly faster tempo that introduces a new rhythm. This change in pace adds a dynamic element to the track, allowing the listener to sway to this fresh rhythm after emerging from a world of sonic bliss. “This is Fine” showcases Voesten’s ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through his music, from contemplation to invigoration, making it a standout piece on the album.
“Heresy” takes the listener on a journey through eerie and haunting soundscapes. The track begins with an ambiance that vibrates around you, akin to the suspenseful prelude of a horror movie. As you immerse yourself in the soundscape, you can’t help but anticipate what comes next. Unexpectedly, the meticulously played grand piano enters the scene, followed by the percussion, and before you know it, a festival-like rhythm unfolds. This unexpected shift in rhythm takes you by surprise, immediately lifting your mood as you become enveloped in the infectious vibe. “Heresy” demonstrates Voesten’s ability to play with expectations and emotions, keeping the listener engaged and enthralled throughout the track’s duration.
The final song of the album, “Antifragile,” opens with a resonant and vibrating sound, accompanied by the haunting yet enchanting saxophone. This combination creates a dream-like atmosphere that transports the listener to a realm of ethereal beauty and contemplation. As the composition progresses, you are carried away on a mesmerizing journey, guided by the interplay of instruments and the emotional depth of the music. “Antifragile” serves as a fitting conclusion to “Ambrosia,” leaving a lasting impression and a sense of fulfillment.
Ruud Voesten’s “Ambrosia” is a meticulously crafted instrumental album that astounds with its depth and emotional range. Despite the absence of vocals, each track speaks to the listener in unique ways. From the grandeur of the first track to the unexpected twists and turns in “Heresy,” this album keeps you engaged from start to finish. For the ultimate experience, plug in your headphones and let the rich tapestry of sounds envelop you. The production of “Ambrosia” is nothing short of exceptional. Every instrument is masterfully played, and they harmonize seamlessly, allowing you to savor every nuance of the music.
Overall, Ruud Voesten’s “Ambrosia” is a testament to his talent and creativity, offering listeners a mesmerizing and immersive journey through the depths of Dante’s Inferno. It’s an album that not only deserves a place in your music collection but also invites you to explore the intricate emotions and themes that inspired its creation.
For more information about Ruud Voesten, click on the links below.
Website
Socials:
Twitter
Facebook
Instagram
Music Platforms:
Youtube
Spotify
Bandcamp
