New record from Suntapes

Belgian composer and ambient visionary Suntapes, the alias of Tomas Johan Kristian Vanderplaetse, has been shaping his own style of atmospheric music for years. Hailing from a background as a classically trained pianist and armed with a collection of unique instruments gathered from across the globe, Suntapes crafts sonic experiences that feel like cinematic journeys. His work occupies the space between ambient, neoclassical and cinematic soundscapes, often imbued with a touch of gloom, a musical ode to summertime melancholy.

His ever-growing catalogue reads like a map of experimental expression, from the psychedelic textures of Hunting for Hills and Shadows of Nagi to the ambient chill of Ambient Boulevard and the meditative slow loops of Slow Wave. With each project, he builds sound worlds that work as standalone musical experiences as well as composing for documentaries, immersive scenes or performing with Belgian rock legend Arno.

Now, in 2025, he unveils his most expansive vision yet with the release of his new full-length album titled Travel Motion. A vivid blend of neoclassical piano, Indian fusion, ambient psychedelia and cinematic atmospheres, the album is an exploration into movement; external, emotional and inner. Across eight tracks, Suntapes invites the listener on a voyage, soundtracked by his unique blend of acoustic piano, analogue synths and exotic instrumentation like tanpura, ruan, harmonium and Thai pin.

The opening track “Overland” sets up the release with a cinematic calm, mixing Schimmel piano, analogue synth and textured bass guitar to create a darkly elegant ambiance already finding its place in documentary scores. “Motion” follows, slowly building from minimal piano into a warm, harmonic swell powered by mellotron flutes and intricate synth layers, conjuring a soothing soundtrack for reflective moments.

On “Plaza,” Suntapes channels the wistfulness of discovering a beautiful place, its mellow piano and tranquil textures evoking travel’s quiet joy while “Varkala” ventures firther into global influences, with Indian and Thai instruments washing over a relaxing piano line to produce a spiritual, fusion-tinged soundscape. “Galiano,” inspired by sunsets on Galiano Island, combines close-miked piano with ruan and thumb piano tones, bringing the warmth of fading light into a gently cinematic form.

“Fathom” continues the meditative thread, its repetitive piano motif and ambient layers capturing the ritual of reflection, measuring not only water, but emotional impact. “Misterioso” leans into mystery and minimalism, its hypnotic mood offering a subtle transition toward the finale. The closing track “Cavern” glides into the depths with dark ambient drones, low-register piano avalanches and the ghostly echoes of reverse Wurlitzer, ending the journey on a beautifully brooding note.

Listent to Travel Motion below