Sean Addicott – Cat’s Eyes in Absentia

Sean Addicott’s Cat’s Eyes in Absentia is a stunning example of ambient, experimental music that strikes at the intersection of chaos and order, where each note is both intentionally elusive and profoundly reflective. Released as the first piece from the upcoming Rewilding Machines EP series, Cat’s Eyes in Absentia serves as both a sonic meditation and a raw exploration of human emotion, heightened by the socio-political context that surrounds its creation. Although the composition was first born out of wild improvisation in 2022, its true significance and meaning emerged in 2023, shaped by the aftermath of the Israeli invasion of Al-Shifa hospital, which casts a somber tone over the piece.

The track’s pacing is languid, giving the listener ample space to breathe and reflect. The lack of traditional structure leaves room for a non-linear journey, one that challenges conventional expectations of rhythm, allowing for space to simply feel. The atmosphere is thick with tension and intrigue, as Addicott uses layers of drone and ambient textures to create a soundscape that feels both otherworldly and deeply intimate. This approach feels like an invitation to sit with discomfort, to be present, and to listen with an open heart.

From a technical standpoint, Cat’s Eyes in Absentia is a masterclass in the use of synths, basslines, and digital manipulation. The bass is subtly pulsating, a low-frequency hum that creates an undercurrent of tension without becoming overwhelming. It never fully resolves, mirroring the uncertainty that permeates the piece. The synth work is vast and atmospheric, fluctuating between harsh, distorted bursts and more delicate, airy tones. This ebb and flow of sound is not only a sonic reflection of chaos and order, but also an aural manifestation of the human experience: moments of stillness broken by intense bursts of emotion and noise, followed by a return to a semblance of calm.

The rhythmic structure, or lack thereof, further contributes to the sense of unpredictability and emotional rawness that pervades the track. There is no typical “beat” or guiding pulse; instead, the piece meanders, with sounds arriving at unexpected intervals and seeming to exist in a state of constant flux. This mirrors the aleatoric, or chance-based, digital signal processing that Addicott has embraced, moving away from the predictability of traditional DAWs (digital audio workstations) and instead leaning into the “wildness” that is central to the Rewilding Machines project. It’s as if Addicott is rewilding not just machines, but also the very act of composition itself, allowing the digital tools to break free from their constraints and engage in a more organic, almost primal, process.

The track’s meditative qualities are heightened by its broader thematic context. Cat’s Eyes in Absentia is a reflection on absence—whether it be the void left by global crises or the space between personal experiences. The title itself evokes a sense of longing, and the music fills that emptiness with a mixture of sadness, anger, and catharsis. As an emotionally charged piece, it’s easy to see how it draws from Addicott’s previous works, such as Destroyertones, which similarly navigates themes of catharsis, isolation, and transformation. However, in Cat’s Eyes in Absentia, the feeling of alienation and introspection feels even more pronounced, more visceral.

In conclusion, Cat’s Eyes in Absentia is a thought-provoking and emotional composition that rewards attentive listening. Its blend of ambient textures, drones, and unpredictable sonic landscapes make it a compelling listen for fans of experimental electronic music, while its deeply personal and political undertones elevate it beyond a simple sound experience into a piece of art meant to provoke reflection. This is music that isn’t meant to be consumed passively—rather, it’s an invitation to step into a space that exists beyond the digital realm, to feel, to process, and to be. The fact that proceeds from the track will go to Medical Aid Palestine adds an extra layer of significance, making it not only a sonic experience but also a call for empathy and action in the face of adversity.

Sean Addicott has once again proven his ability to push boundaries, and we are honored to host Cat’s Eyes in Absentia on our webzine. It is a beautiful reminder of the emotional potential of sound and the power of art to inspire change.

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