One of the most pressing issues of truly solo work is the dangers of tunnel vision. When a single person helms every aspect of a recording, from performance to production to presentation, it runs the risk of being born of an echo chamber. But there are times when an enigmatic, bewitching chamber of echoes is as captivating as it gets. Mark Kleyn, one half of acclaimed string duo Pallmer, effortlessly shows just how impressively he wears every hat on his new release Foot Hold. Continue reading Mark Kleyn Spirals Into Enthralling Viola Loops on ‘Foot Hold’
All posts by Brandon Lorimer
Blackwood Carves a Path Through Enchanting Vistas on ‘Lost and Found’
Knowing that Lost and Found is the first album released by the duo Blackwood comes as a big surprise. Comprised of the industry veterans of pianist Peter-Anthony Togni and bass clarinetist Jeff Reilly, the musical chemistry on display here feels too enchanting for it to be the first album of this project. The Halifax pair have dove deep into their collective experience as musicians and composers, and the treasure they have emerged with is nothing short of magical. Continue reading Blackwood Carves a Path Through Enchanting Vistas on ‘Lost and Found’
Behrooz Mihankhah’s ‘Lydium’ Merges Notes From Across the World
Behrooz Mihankhah had already proved just what a creative force he would be when he released the title track from his new album Lydium. And if anything, the refined musicianship that was on display there was an understatement of what we would be treated to on the album proper. Lydium is all at once familiar and unknown, intimate and vast, cozy and explorative. It is a deep look into one of Nova Scotia’s preeminent jazz artists and the sights are something to behold. Continue reading Behrooz Mihankhah’s ‘Lydium’ Merges Notes From Across the World
Andy Creeggan Creates Masterful Abstractions on ‘Andiwork IV’
Andy Creeggan has had a colourful career within Canada’s musical tapestry. Known, of course, originally for his work in the ever-delightful icon that is Barenaked Ladies, he has spent even more time delving into his own projects, diving into the creative machinery that churns within his mind. And with almost 12 years passing since his last solo album, Andiwork IV has arrived with a unique flourish that charms and fascinates. Continue reading Andy Creeggan Creates Masterful Abstractions on ‘Andiwork IV’
David Myles Crafts a Timeless Jazz-Funk Gem with ‘That Tall Distance’
There are some albums that give themselves an eternal spot in your rotation upon first listen. Albums that tap into a distinct musical essence so invigorating that they form a concrete part of your mind’s musical framework. David Myles’ surprise jazz-funk hit That Tall Distance is just such an album, and as evidenced on the two lead singles off of the album, Myles’ foray into vibrant new genres is an extremely rewarding exploration. Continue reading David Myles Crafts a Timeless Jazz-Funk Gem with ‘That Tall Distance’