 |
|
|
Breaking free from what has gone before ... (November 25, 2009) Folk-jazz fusion, rock-influenced, dance driven or ambient-synthesised – try to pin down the fourth solo album from Fraser Fifield and you’re going to have a hard time. Better by far to listen (then listen again and again) if you want to find out what ‘Stereocanto’ is all about. With a lineage that includes Wolfstone and Old Blind Dogs, Fraser has again broken free from what has gone before and cut a distinctive groove. As usual, Fraser works his magic with highland pipes, low whistle, soprano saxophone, highland hornpipe and chanter but now he’s ventured into wandering through synthesised soundscapes as well. Also working their portion of enchantment on the album are Graeme Stephen (guitars) Alyn Cosker (drums) Mario Caribe (bass) Vicky Fifield (strings) and Peter Tickell (fiddle). If you enjoy listening to talented musicians having a great time this is album is the place to go.
‘Cabin Fever’ and ‘Snakes Well’ are perfect examples you think you have them and as soon as you do they’re off somewhere else, usually where you don’t expect them to go. The mix includes gentle melodies over written with short sharp phrasing, strutting interplay and insistent argument between instruments augmented by mesmeric synthesised sounds. ‘Miss Anna Marie’ is more gentle and provocative but again the elaborate complexity is obvious the more you hit the ‘repeat’ button. ‘Angels’ enchants - blending folk-fashioned whistle passages with cutting guitar riffs and mellow sax breaks to create an intriguing whole. There are nine precise measures of vivacity on this album. Seductive passion and driving emotion mingle with boundless energy and inventive improvisation to deliver a work of genius.
Click here to return to the Album Reviews page
Powered by Create |
|
However, it’s the quick observation about listening more
than once is important because I have a feeling that too many people will
listen once, classify this as mood-music and turn off. Wrong. This album
demands attention and if you don’t persevere then you will miss something
dramatic and captivating. Beyond the wraith-like sounds that alternately caress
and energise your ear is a meld of complex musical expression that requires
more than a little concentration.