Gregg Kowalsky: The 'Monday Is Okay' Mix

Music

Daylight and the warmth within the glow of a morning are elements which maintain immense value to Gregg Kowalsky. This year marked the release of his first album in some eight long years, an elegant ambient excursion which was widely championed by an array of critics and listeners. Blending the use of analog synths alongside modern day mastering techniques and the use of technology he managed to create a dreamy, ethereal assortment of music which remained as singular and individual as ever.

His music is a result of self exploration and lived experiences in climates far warmer than in which we are writing. Both Miami and Los Angeles have been home for Gregg across the last ten years, perhaps this is why he is able to channel musical expression towards the sun, something those in the UK are often lacking.

Anyway, all social commentary aside he has truly set the bar for the future and "L'Orange, L'Orange" is a beautiful piece of work. We invited Gregg to record a mix as part of our Monday ambient series as he selects music from the likes of Hiroshi Yoshimura, Harold Budd and many more.

Listen and read the interview below:

Please introduce yourself… Who are you, where are you and what are you?

Gregg Kowalsky composer and educator writing from sunny Los Angeles, where I recorded and mixed my new album of ambient music L’Orange, L’Orange.

What does your music sound like? Can you draw what you think it sounds like for us (an image from the old internet is acceptable)?

My music sounds like where grew up and where I live; Miami and Los Angeles. The music is soothing like the sun and thick air.

Where was the mix recorded?

The mix was recorded in Hollywood on Sunset Blvd. where I work. The mix is more of a Hollywood night, than daytime tracks.

What would be the ideal setting to listen to the mix?

Somewhere quiet with candles and incense.

What should we be wearing?

Yoga pants or something comfortable.

Which track in the mix is your current favourite?

Really liking the Paula Anna Strom reissue Trans-Millenial Music on Rvng. Int. She was an analog synth guru releasing LPs in the early to mid 1980s. Her music is original and sounds unlike anything else.