Liminal Planes is a duo creating what might be called industrial-drift music—that is, sound which exists somehow between the worlds of harsh noise and dreamy ambience. There seems to be an abundance of underground artists exploring this terrain, but not many that can truly elevate this type of music into something unique and moving. Fortunately, most of Liminal Planes’ debut full-length album does indeed reach into this space of truly inspired sound art. There are a couple missteps along the way, but the duo always manages to get back to the core of what makes their sound work.

"Mineral Rights" is made up of four tracks of improvised free-noise passages. The disc clocks in at around 45 minutes, so it's definitely one for those who aren't put off by lengthy songs. The first track is the standout for me. It’s full of searing tones that burn through the speakers, revealing layers of textural depth. There are moments that remind me of earlier Robedoor material, mostly because of the use of moody melodic guitar lines that coexist with the industrial hums and clatter. The track moves along well and it feels like a completed piece, not just an excerpt of a performance.

Most of the album follows in the spirit of the opening track. Expect lots of distorted waves of texture mixed with the occasional melodic flourish. The only track I really have a problem with is "Longship," which features an E-Bowed guitar that outstays its welcome. It's hard for me to get excited about any uses of the electronic bow these days, as it has just been overused so much in the world of guitar-based drone music.

Besides my one minor objection, I found Liminal Planes to be a highly capable and creative force in a genre of music that tends to include a lot of filler. Their keen sense of movement really keeps the disc flowing nicely, and while the exploration of industrial drift might be a little overcrowded at times, this is definitely a band to take notice of. 7/10 -- Charles Franklin (28 July, 2010)