conditions for observing light

British-Indian composer, producer, and pianist Cephas Azariah returns with his highly anticipated sophomore album, ‘conditions for observing light’, out 3 September.

Always drawn to classical composition, Cephas studied Music Theology and the Arts at Middlesex University and began composing film and TV soundtracks immediately upon graduating. His debut LP, ‘Joy Paradox’, was released in late 2024, drawing on the full spectrum of his influences. It marked his introduction to the neo-classical, ambient, and electronic space, receiving heavy support from the likes of BBC 6 Music, KEXP, Wonderland, CLASH, and Ólafur Arnalds.

Taking a philosophical approach to society and culture, ‘conditions for observing light’ finds Azariah contemplating where radiance can be found in an increasingly dark world. Across ten immersive tracks, he explores light in all its forms, from the natural energy of the sun and lightning to the intimate glow of a candle and human-made artificial light.

Written between his home studio and the secluded wilderness of Scotland’s Cairngorms National Park, Azariah spent months recording textures that represent light-related phenomena, weaving them into ambient soundscapes. Cephas presents light on this album as a way of understanding ourselves and illuminating the world around us: “It reveals both the light and dark of our environment, and marks the beginning of a journey towards something brighter." This evolution is mirrored in the album’s sonic journey, from moments of light-hearted piano work reminiscent of the first blossoms of spring, while the latter half of the record scales in sound toward something more euphoric.

Introducing a handful of exciting, talented collaborations, the sophomore album features music with London-based electronic producers Kidnap and josh & sam who are twins; Seoul-born pianist Yujin Baek; and Colorado-based ambient composer Be Still the Earth.

”Emotions are vast and varied when you consider the light and shade of society - the good and the bad. The album as a whole sounds darker, and while there are many soft moments, the project leans into the cinematic drama of light,” Cephas says.