Approaching Black

Shannon Riches, known musically as Approaching Black (a metaphor for ‘after sunset and just before nightfall’), Is a composer, musician, and producer from the East Coast of Australia.

As a young child there was always music playing in his home, - classical, rock and everything in between was heard. It was, however, the pop sounds of the 80’s which started Shannon’s love of synthesized music, and in particular the beautifully crafted soundscapes on Roxy Music’s studio album ‘Avalon’. This was also the era of ‘Glam Rock’, and the guitar solos that became iconic of that time, drove a desire in Shannon to learn and play the guitar. Later in the 90’s synthesizers and samplers became a fascination, especially after hearing the open dreamy sounds created on Enigmas ground-breaking album ‘MCMXC a.D.’

Today the Approaching Black sound is greatly inspired by nature. The songs of whales, dolphins and birds singing, the gentle lap of ocean waves, the soothing sound of rain on the roof, and many other recordings from nature, sit gently behind the mix. Lush wet pianos, calming synth pads, and organic percussive sounds combine to create an atmosphere that can relax, upbuild and inspire. Just as the sun sets and night turns to day, may these sounds also help you transition to the place you would like to be.