Navigating the world of experimental music often feels like a solitary journey through a dense, uncharted wilderness. Dave Phillips' latest release, actually coupling two releases in one, "Should a Seeker Not Find a Companion Who Is Better or Equal, Let Him Resolutely Pursue a Solitary Course; There Is No Fellowship with the Fool" (even writing the title by its initials would be quite longer!) and "Cicada Trance", aptly encapsulates this sentiment, offering an aural expedition that’s both challenging and, at times, bewildering.

The first track/recording, clocking in at a formidable 56:16, is a structured arrangement of field recordings from reptilian, amphibian, and insect-centered origins. This piece, originally released in 2008 and now remastered for physical format, is a testament to Phillips' dedication to his craft. The use of gurgles, primal roars, and nocturnal screams creates an immersive soundscape that can only be described as hyperreal. It’s a cacophony of nature’s raw, unfiltered voices, meticulously woven into a complex yet somewhat rhythmic tapestry.

Ironically, while the title suggests a solitary course free from the fool, the piece itself demands a patient and discerning listener—qualities often in short supply among those quick to dismiss such unconventional soundscapes. The track’s length and intensity might deter the casual listener, but for the seasoned seeker, it offers a rich and rewarding experience, full of subtle nuances and organic textures.

The second track/recording, "Cicada Trance", extends the journey for another hour and two minutes. Here, Phillips delves deeper into the realm of field recordings, constructing an almost meditative experience out of the incessant drone of cicadas. The trance-like quality of this piece is both its strength and its Achilles' heel. The relentless buzz can either hypnotize or aggravate, depending on the listener’s disposition.

One cannot help but marvel at the irony: an album that purports to distance itself from folly requires a kind of foolish devotion to endure. The immersive nature of "Cicada Trance" demands complete surrender to its repetitive, droning cadence. It’s a challenge, a dare even, for the listener to find beauty and solace in what might initially seem monotonous.

Dave Phillips’ “Should a Seeker... / Cicada Trance” is a profound exploration of natural soundscapes, meticulously crafted and presented with a soldier’s sense of duty, as described in the release information. Phillips’ extensive experience with field recordings and his punk-rooted, experimental approach shine through, making this release a significant, if esoteric, addition to his oeuvre.

However, the album’s demanding nature and extensive lengths are a double-edged sword. For those willing to engage deeply, it offers an unparalleled auditory journey, rich with detail and organic beauty. For others, it might appear as a nearly hour-long endurance test, a solitary course indeed. Whether you find yourself resolutely pursuing this solitary course or abandoning it for more familiar territory, Phillips’ work undeniably commands respect for its uncompromising vision and execution.