Ascending

Ascending is the fourth album from Clear Path Ensemble. Bandleader Cory Champion takes a solo approach this time, improvising with himself to create layered sonic landscapes recorded in a single day. Inspired by minimalist and ambient pioneers like Steve Reich and Laraiji, the album opens with hypnotic textures on 'Tongue Rhythm', moves through reflective soundscapes with 'Train of Thought', and channels mid-70s Miles Davis on 'Say Something' and the title track. It closes with the celestial melodies of 'Epicycle'. Featuring six compositions with minimal instrumentation—except 'Saying Something', which includes piano, Rhodes, and vibes from longtime collaborator Daniel Hayles—Ascending strips back the spiritual jazz, space music, and electronica of Champion's earlier work. A introspective journey into the infinite and sublime.