G: Try Dead Can Dance as a starting point. Their music has a solemn, almost otherworldly quality without being outright depressing. Spotify Radio based on them should pull in a mix of darkwave, neoclassical, and ethereal ambient tracks that fit the mood.

If you want something more modern but still in that space, Ólafur Arnalds or Max Richter could also work—both blend classical elements with atmospheric textures that feel weighty but not bleak.

G: For instrumental solemnity without outright gloom, try basing a Spotify radio on:

• Max Richter – Contemporary classical with emotional depth but not overwhelming sorrow.
• Ólafur Arnalds – Minimalist piano and strings with a reflective, airy feel.
• Hildur Guðnadóttir – Deep, textured cello work (e.g., Chernobyl score, but not all of her work is as heavy).
• Jóhann Jóhannsson – Rich orchestration with electronic touches, often contemplative.
• Hammock (instrumentals only) – Ambient post-rock with a solemn but not crushingly dark tone.
• Helios – Gentle electronic-ambient with warmth.
• Ludovico Einaudi – Simple yet evocative piano-based neoclassical music.

A mix of these should keep things solemn but not oppressive.