Jumpel, aka Jo Durbeck (Bones) is a project that is all about exploring space. Most of that space is silence. “Deuxieme Bureau” has a beat, but is mostly a minimal, ambient tour through a room; or maybe it is a garden. A forest? Whatever, the tracks here imply a specific, self-contained space.

Piano and drums join with bass and the more constant electronic pulse to make “Leaves” an appropriate way to introduce the record. “Consider The Kicker knows it” and “Joe couldn’t make it tonight” are darker, particularly the ghostly vocals on the latter. Loops are the foundation of “Quicken Belts,” which again blends in piano in original ways.

“SealFriends” ends the set simply, but with light and warm ambient tones.

Jumpel add a personal take on ambient sounds. Jo Durbeck’s music is welcoming and gentle, even as it challenges. “Deuxieme Bureau” explores the positive sounds that are always there, even in the silence, even in sadness. 6/10 -- Mike Wood (10 June, 2009)