I couldn't dig it - but I like the article and idea. Other readers: what are some of your favorite chill background tracks? I'm on Hippie Sabotage lately.
I have a coding / focus Spotify playlist of tracks that keep me focused and in the zone without being distracting. Contains a lot of ambient, deep instrumental house and ambient dub techno: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/28W4UPjme9kuIxMKjdlSMx?si=...
I wouldn't call this background music. In fact, I'd say it works best when you give it your full attention with eyes closed. Nevertheless, 'Music for 18 Musicians' is a go-to when I need to simmer down.
Steve Reich and that particular piece are awesome. I'm not quite sure how "relaxing" his music is for me, but it can definitely induce trance-like states, and in general it's just good music.
'R Plus Seven' got major play from me when it came out! :)
I think the 'trance-like state' is what I find relaxing. It's basically meditation. I've been listening to the ECM recording since I posted that, and I'm realizing that's not my preferred recording. I really like the recording done by the Grand Valley State University New Music Ensemble: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0xzyzgqEk5U&list=PLkqUzfbYHJ...