Wedge Between
I saw ice in Los Angeles on Monday. Not only did I see ice, but I actually almost slipped on it, which is nothing short of ridiculous. This was a first for me - and I don't know how many other people have seen this. I almost didn't believe it myself, and had to get confirmation from another New Hampshire native to make sure I wasn't completely crazy. The same day, I climbed the highest peak in the Santa Monicas, which happened to be experiencing 60 mph winds at the top. The winds blew the glasses off my face.
So, as we experience the coldest weather in 70 years, it is always nice to have music to bundle up with. This winter is probably the first one I've spent in Los Angeles where I've actually felt somewhat cozy. This is a good thing. Did RadicalFashion have this in mind when he recorded this song in Japan? Of course not. That doesn't mean it's not working for me though, because it is.
We start with what sounds like a clock, or a metronome. A hand across a page, some gentle clockwork winding. None of this provides the beat under which the piano melody will ride. It sets the scene for us, with what sounds like a sharp exhale coming at opportune moments. It almost sounds like the piano is being played in another room, while we're quietly getting work done in the foreground. It's the type of song that I love - a song that exists in its own enviroment, creating its own textures and space.
I love this new record from RadicalFasion. You can now preorder it from the good folks at Hefty Records for a great price. I highly recommend it for fans of somewhat abstract neoclassical piano music.