Jim Ottaway – Infinite Universes (self-release, 2023)
Internationally acclaimed Australian composer Jim Ottaway continues to push the boundaries of ambient electronic music with his latest release, Infinite Universes. Building on the cosmic themes explored in his previous works—such as Threshold of the Universe (2021), Beyond the Purple Sun (2019), Deep Space Blue (2017), and Southern Cross (2016)—Infinite Universes represents the next evolutionary step in Ottaway’s exploration of space ambient music.
This nine-track album delves into the beauty, wonder, and complexities of the cosmos, posing the thought-provoking question: “Could our universe be but one of countless others in a vast multiverse?” This question anchors the album’s thematic journey, inviting listeners to contemplate the infinite possibilities beyond our own cosmic horizon through spellbinding compositions.
As with all of Ottaway’s projects, the tracks on Infinite Universes were meticulously selected from his extensive archive of recorded material. While most compositions were crafted in recent years, a few were made back in 2008, underscoring Ottaway’s enduring creative vision. Each piece, however, was refined and enhanced in the six months leading up to the album’s completion in May 2023. The album was recorded and produced in Ottaway’s home studio, nestled at the foothills of the picturesque Springbrook Mountain on Australia’s Gold Coast.
Ottaway’s reputation in the world of ambient and electronic music is well-established. His last ten albums—including Somewhere In-Between, Threshold of the Universe, When Eternity Touches Time, Beautiful Desolation, Beyond the Purple Sun, Yesterday Passing, Deep Space Blue, Timeless e-Motion, Southern Cross, and Invisible Vortex—have garnered nominations and awards worldwide. Notably, he won Best Electronic Album at the 17th Annual Zone Music Reporter (ZMR) Awards in 2021 for When Eternity Touches Time, and secured two awards at the 14th Annual ZMR Awards in 2018 for Deep Space Blue (Best Ambient Album) and Timeless e-Motion (Best Electronic Album). Additionally, in 2023, Ottaway became the first Australian to win a prestigious Schallwelle German Electronic Music Award.
Buy Infinite Universes.