artist: Raphael country of origin: USA style(s): Ambient orchestral, ethno ambient, dream pop essential releases: Music To Disappear In (1988, Hearts Of Space) Music To Disappear In II (1991, Hearts Of Space)

San Francisco artist Raphael's first two albums capture perfectly what "contemporary spacemusic" label Heart Of Space Records did so well in its 1980's heyday. Broadcaster and label founder Stephen Hill understood that the pretty surfaces of music like Raphael's appealed to the growing and lucrative new age market of the time, while the considerable riches beneath satisfied ambient fans who sought substance and depth in their music.

Don’t let the title of these albums fool you; far from being listless muzak for relaxation Music To Disappear In and Music To Disappear In II are both delicate, fragile jewels. Featuring Raphael on keyboards with various supporting musicians, the music is in two major styles. One is the angelic orchestral atmospheres coloured by classical influences and strong harmonies; the other is the trance-like tribal dream dances propelled by sleepy, mesmerising tom-tom rhythms.

It's lush, seductive new age music with brains. Music that you can, well, just disappear into.

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