Belgian composer and ambient explorer Suntapes—aka Tomas Johan Kristian Vanderplaetse—has dropped a dreamlike, cinematic gem with Travel Motion. It’s his most cohesive and emotionally tuned project yet, blending delicate piano compositions, analog synth warmth, and instruments from across the globe into a vivid journey of sound and soul.
From the start, Travel Motion doesn’t just play—it breathes. “Overland” immediately introduces you to Suntapes’ patient world-building, drawing you into an evolving soundscape that feels part score, part whispered memory. His use of the Schimmel piano and effects-heavy bass here feels tactile and raw, like you’re sitting beside him as he creates.
“Motion” and “Plaza” move into more melodic territory, with piano leading the way. These tracks don’t push—they drift, evolve, and resonate. The tones are soft, analog, human. You hear Vanderplaetse’s classical background coming through, especially under his Tomas Johan Kristian alias—he balances ambient production with trained pianistic nuance.
But Travel Motion really opens up in its second half. “Varkala” is where the global textures shine—layering tanpura drones and Indian harmonium with a melodic piano that brings East and West into harmony. “Galiano” is pure atmosphere, inspired by sunsets on the Canadian island of the same name. It’s transportive, chill but not cold—think Sufjan’s Planetarium but quieter and more elemental.
The album’s mood gradually shifts from light to shadow. “Misterioso” is hypnotic and introspective, a track for your headphone-only days, while “Cavern” is just that—a deep, echoing dive into ambient darkness. It leaves you questioning where the journey took you, in the best way.
Suntapes has made something really special here. Travel Motion isn’t just for ambient lovers—it’s for travelers, deep thinkers, night walkers. An album for when you’re between places, or emotions, or versions of yourself.
