6 tracks. Running time 58:41 Composer Robert Straub is the man behind the name Arrocata and his latest album In the Distance is inspired by, and evocative of, the Sonoran desert. By combining electronic, acoustic, and what are either environmental or faux environmental sound effects, he's created a low key atmospheric work. For most of us who are unfamiliar with the Sonoran desert the liner notes helpfully contain some brief background on each of the tracks. Whereas some ambient albums feel like they're taking you on a journey, listening to In the Distance is more like staying in one place while soaking up the atmosphere and surroundings in detail. I've not encountered many albums that mix found sounds and subtle music in such an integral way; the nearest work with any similarity I can think of is OTI's Recollection. First up is “Superstitions” which refers to the superstition mountains that contain rock spires and canyons. Washes like insectile humming breeze in and out of the soundfield while a lone drum beat is heard every few seconds adding a hint of a tribal aura. Meanwhile sounds of life constantly tweet and twitter in the background. A sense of mystery pervades the album, as though the Earth's secrets are providing brief glimpses to the edges of human perception. Musically the peak is found on “The Dutchman” which begins with a snaking of drones possessing a suggestion of frisson, spooky washes, and occasional searing electronics that shatter the calm. A slow tinkling rhythm then kicks in to soon be joined by drum and bass effects. Several kinds of washes, some vocally tinged, whoosh to and fro adding to the somewhat hypnotic but also disquieting feeling. In the Distance is an absorbing ambient work where the music melds seamlessly with the environmental effects. Recommended.