![]() |
Halcyon Days by Jeff Berkwits, Asterism Fall 1996 On this amazing album, noted ethno-electronic explorers Steve Roach and Stephen Kent combine their talents with those of multi-instrumentalist Kenneth Newby to create an astounding assemblage of soothing atmospherics. Both Roach and Kent are famous for their mastery of the Australian didgeridoo, and their skills are amply displayed on "Snake Brothers," which creates a placid yet powerful setting through its slithery synthesized sounds entwined with droning ethnic instrumentation. "Kingfisher Flight," the last cut on this eight-tune collection, offers another highlight, ending the trio's 63-minute journey with quiet waves of ambience breaking over the inviting shores of a far-off, seemingly otherworldly land. The title of this CD alludes to the ancient Greek legend of the once-human kingfisher who lays her eggs on calm waters, and throughout this work there is an enticing element of imperturbable tranquility. Within that serene tableau, these artists generate an astonishing selection of songs that inexorably yet ingeniously enthrall, entertain and entrance.
|