Although this remains well within Chalk's usual ambient/drone territory, The River That Flows Into The Sands II is easily one of his noisiest solo efforts to date. The first three tracks for example (they feel like a trio) are long, drawn out, high pitched, ringing drones which constantly threaten to violently explode into a wall of irritating feedback. One second you're hypnotized and at peace, the next you're terrified and panicked that you might become deaf at any moment. Some of these tracks reminded me very much of La Monte Young's many Drift Studies and drones for bowed gong (check out Part 9). The only truly peaceful moment on the record is during the brief fourth track. Like the eye of the storm, this one gives us a chance to breath before delving back into the shadows. Don't get me wrong, this album is in no way a noise album; but some of these drones might prove too loud and irritating for some listeners.