Released
1998

Label
SubRosa

Reviewed by
Daniel Marvin

Visit
SubRosa

Distributed in the USA
By



Last Edit/Update
22 June, 1999

David Shea

An Eastern Western Collected Works

Track Listing

1. Dangerous Ground
2. A Spiral
3. Lines
4. Il Siciliano
5. Harmonies
6. Jade Mirror
7. Duo / Solo For Trumpet and Sampler
8. Solo / Duo
9. Elegy for Mario Bava

    Track one begins with high tempo pianos moving along with a hint of suspense and quickly the track builds into a very cinematic suspense-driven piece which envelopes the listener. I was expecting the entire album to be this way but I was completely wrong! Some tracks incorporate eerie soundscapes or an interesting ambience with hi-end percussion and bells to flowing atmospherics and odd synthethic sounds. By combining eastern and western aspects, the music is very diverse and interesting throughout the entire album. All the tracks are very experimental; for example, in "A Spiral" he mixes asian ritualistic sounds of glazed bells, some sort of metallic chain sound with sporadic low-grinds of light noise.

    While all the tracks contain some form of difference and complexity, the last is truly the gem in my eyes. It starts off at a high tempo and slowly moves into the realms of dark, almost eerie flowing ambient with chilling instrumentation and other odd synthethic effects over the long length which it lasts. I would highly recommend this album for any individuals who are into experimental work of a very flavourful nature as well as anyone who enjoys the sounds of both hemispheres.