Not unlike it's predecessor, Stars Of The Lid's The Ballasted Orchestra is one VERY dark journey. Although not as consistently dark and bleak as Thomas Köner's glacial soundscapes, some of these tracks do manage to conjure up similar wintry moods and tones (just check out the opening cavernous howl of the opening Central Texas. Only the scintillating and majestic Sun Drugs or the blissful The Artificial Pine Arch Song seem to hint at the later, orchestral bliss which the duo were slowly refining. The latter, an eighteen minute journey through absolute peace and tranquility is especially arresting. The two part Music For Twin Peaks Episode #30 (the show has only 29 episodes) is a grandiose and breathtaking homage to David Lynch's infamous TV series from the 90s. Deep down within these swelling drones, the duo managed to captured the same wild spirit and air of mystery which featured in the show's music and narration. Stunning!