New Zealand Ambient Composer Rudy Adrian Finds Magic in the Moment on Southern Isles Sketchbook

October 24, 2026

New Zealand ambient composer Rudy Adrian celebrates his 13th Spotted Peccary release with Southern Isles Sketchbook, a richly atmospheric album that captures both the immediacy of inspiration and the depth of refined sound design. Inspired by the remote beauty of the South Pacific, the record draws listeners into a world of drifting textures, quiet detail, and immersive sonic environments. Southern Isles Sketchbook is available worldwide today as a CD, digital download, and is on all major streaming platforms. orcd.co/southern-isles-sketchbook

Created using Yamaha SY77 and Montage synthesizers, sequenced on an Apple Macintosh Plus, Southern Isles Sketchbook continues Adrian’s signature approach while subtly exploring new sonic territory. Only one piece – the improvised “Southern Isles” – made the transition from sketch to finished piece, and the two versions open and close the album.

This project also marks the beginning of an ongoing collaboration with Norwegian landscape and wildlife photographer Lars Nyquist, whose evocative imagery complements the music’s sense of space and stillness, and thoroughly aligns with Adrian’s contribution to the ambient genre.

All music written, recorded and mixed between 2022 and 2026 by Rudy Adrian, with the exception of “Tropical Beach,” which is an out-take from 2003 that also contains wordless vocals sung by the artist. The album was mastered by Howard Givens at Spotted Peccary Studios, NW, Portland, OR. Creative design by Daniel Pipitone at Spotted Peccary Studios, NE, Ligonier, PA, with photos by Lars Nyquist.

Southern Isles Sketchbook (SPM-2610) is available for streaming and downloading, including high resolution studio master formats at rudy-adrian.bandcamp.com/album/southern-isles-sketchbook

For artist interviews, reviews, or promotional requests, please contact Beth Ann Hilton via beth@spottedpeccary.com.

Tracklist:

1 Southern Isles 03:43

2 Tropical Beach 02:35

3 Sheltered Harbour 04:11

4 The Silver Talisman 04:58

5 Foggy Day 03:31

6 Drifting Skies 03:36

7 It Is Written in the Stars 05:17

8 Hilltop Walk 03:19

9 Portobello 05:59

10 Moorlands V (improvised sketch) 03:36