Immundus - Haunted Memories (2009)

Immundus is the solo endeavor of Bruno Duarte who has been recording under this banner since he moved to Norway (originally from Portugal) back in 2003. During these past seven years he’s released two full-length albums, one EP, a 3’ single and has appeared on numerous compilations, but let us focus in on his second album, ‘Haunted Memories’ from 2009, which is surely one of the finest ambient records I’ve heard in recent years.

Bruno labels his music as ghost ambient, which will surely raise an eyebrow or two, but once you hear it you’ll definitely understand. His brand of ambiance carries a creepy and otherworldly sentiment, which at least to my ears sounds like it’s been partially influenced by classic 70’s/80’s horror movies and perhaps even some video game music. Therefore, the music is considerably more melodic and diverse from track to track and since the album only runs for forty two minutes it’s also obviously shorter than most ambient records. It is however definitely dark ambient music and you can surely listen to this album while relaxing, sleeping or reading, though you might feel yourself drifting to a different world and leaving behind your current whereabouts.

It’s Immundus’ goal to transport the listener to the darker side of life and through these ten songs he surely does do that. I’ve listened to this album a few times with the lights out with a few candles burning and the atmospheric effect as been quite colossal to say the least. It really gives me that feeling that something might be out there and when I feel those hairs on the back of my neck rising I can’t help but wonder if I’m alone or someone else is in my apartment with me. There are also some samples thrown in to his work like water dripping, chains being dragged on the ground, indistinguishable voices, children’s laughter, music boxes, violent winds and so on, which all add to the experience wonderfully. I’ve also often times detected a sense of beauty within this record, which perhaps is just one of the many factors that’s kept me coming back for more.

Immundus’, Haunted Memories is without doubt a work of genius in an otherwise overcrowded and often times stale genre that only has a few true standouts. I’ll make it simple though, if you like dark ambient music, this is the record to hear. Go h(a)unt a copy down soon.