Keith Berry’s The Ear That Was Sold to a Fish is one of those albums whose inner life and fertility is compelling evidence that Drone is not only alive, but with designs on immortality. The artful construction and architecture of this post-minimal space drone suite shows how spare means can be harnessed to rich ends, making it one of the most engrossing records of the year – whether 2011 or 2005. INFX 046

Stoughton mini-lp gatefold CD sleeve, cardstock inner sleeve envelopes. Design by Timothy O’Donnell.