Hailing from Quebec, Canada, Alex Henry Foster is a singer, composer, and producer who sometimes works with his band, The Long Shadows, and sometimes flies on his own. His latest release, the ethereal and instrumental A Measure of Shape and Sounds is a solo work of deep introspection following a health crisis that left Foster's musical career in doubt. Written with longtime collaborator Ben Lemelin, this 10-track record is a dark night of the soul not just for Foster, but for anyone who wants to join him.

As already noted, the sound could best be described as "ethereal." With guitar loops swimming in reverb and other synth padding to flesh out the sonic landscape, A Measure... could easily fall into the category of "spa music." However, such a designation would not do the album justice. The listener who really sits with the music will find that these tracks aren't random sounds swirling together; each track has its own identity that feeds into the larger story. Careful listens also catch certain notes or patterns that float in from time-to-time to give the aura of motifs. "Thoughtful Descent" feels like a soft slide down a slope; "A Mind's Tapestry" gives the sense of an interweaving of sounds; "Sorrowful Bouquet" carries an appropriately somber tone; and "Reflective Ascent" feels like a slow rising to new understanding.

While the listener could probably follow some sort of story or line of thought by hearing alone, the song titles help clarify what Alex Henry Foster is trying to convey. "Thoughtful Descent" clues us in that this is an introspective record that might lead to some dark places. "Cinematic Insight" perhaps hints at revelations coming to light. "Self-Portrait" is an intriguing track in that it has a somewhat darker tone; does Foster like what he sees in himself or how he sees himself? "A Gesture, A Present" swings toward hope and perhaps indicates the help of others to get through tough times. By the time "Reflective Ascent" fades into silence, the listener feels the journey is complete.

How much of this interpretation is exactly what Alex Henry Foster was intending or thinking is unknown unless the artist himself explains each track in detail (some background is given on his bandcamp page). Ultimately, A Measure of Shape and Sounds is a piece of abstract art, though not wholly in a postmodern fashion. Foster has meaning behind his songs, and the listener that is paying attention will get the feeling of being led on a journey. The album may be a little too abstract for some, but those who appreciate introspective, ethereal music (and listening to albums with headphones on) will find Foster's latest a journey worth taking.

- Review date: 11/6/24, written by John Underdown of Jesusfreakhideout.com