Barwick’s debut is a masterclass in vocal layering, building ethereal soundscapes from densely-packed loops of her own voice. It’s a foundational work of modern ambient music.
- "The Magic Place" was recorded over two years in Barwick's Brooklyn apartment, primarily using a laptop and the Ableton Live software. The album features no overdubs or external instrumentation beyond Barwick's voice and effects pedals. It was self-released on CD by the artist in 2011 before being picked up by Florida's boutique label, Florid Recordings.
- The album's title track was later featured in a commercial for the iPhone 6, which brought Barwick's music to a wider audience. Critics noted the album's immersive qualities, drawing comparisons to Brian Eno and Sigur Rós.
- "The Magic Place" was met with critical acclaim, appearing on year-end lists for publications like The Wire and Pitchfork. It established Barwick as a singular voice in the ambient electronic scene.
Julianna Barwick is an American electronic musician based in New Orleans, known for her loop-based, effects-laden vocal compositions. "The Magic Place" was her debut album, arriving as ambient electronic music was experiencing a creative resurgence.
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