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ASSU
Pirttijarvi/Skullerud/Torget
(2019 - Bafe's Factory - Finland)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UqU8tXdcrhA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zWmZ88QNVHA

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdzaOnZHsvGSqWFzNQmPv0EHfprvygtkKSeVb7OD5GCr0bpbw/viewform

After my highest recommendation for Solju 'New Times' (see my review), and placing it on my Top Choices of 2018, I was excited about a new release that included the mother (Ulla Pirttijarvi of Finland, on Vocals, Joiks) of that outfit, but now with Olav Torget (from Norway, on Baritone Guitar, Xalam [Konting], Guitar [Oilcan Guitar]), and  Harald Skullerud (from Norway, on Percussion, Kalimba [Calimba], Calabash [Calabas], Harmonium). This Assu (translation "Embers") release is a further exploration of traditional Sami Joik, intertwined with West African variations, plus other eastern influences. Another dreamland, otherworldly gem, that will appeal to both the trance and dance, along with world music fans alike. So with 11 compositions, that take you to another place and time, sit back and let your ears be caressed by the seventh heaven sound of Assu.

Ulla Pirttijarvi is heavy with history of her native traditional music, and especially sensitive to her relatives identity. Her dedication to their home village of Angli and Utsjoki (where she now lives) is presented on this release, a debut by this particular trio. Assu differs from Solju in the fact that this one brings a highly danceable tribal, and energetic vibe to many of the songs, but not without some gentle sacred and serene moments. Unusual touches with harmonica are used in one of the sombre meditative pieces. Both elements of modern technology (like beautiful keyboard washes) and traditional acoustic ethnic percussion are forged together, behind Ulla's authentic and mesmerizing vocal work. Gut stringed instruments, natural shakers, bells, and a mix of exotic percussion, never overdone, hi-light the songs in just the right place. The entire project is pure magic, with ethereal journeys, and celebrative rituals living in peace together.

Never allowing the techno side to take a majority, the traditional side is strongly dominate, thus making Assu a wonderful breath of fresh air, from the mouths of spirits that were at one with the earth and skies. All the songs are traditional except 1,4, & 8, which Pirttijarvi wrote. The physical CD comes in a gorgeous 6 panel digipak, with a fine booklet (includes songs and description of each, pictures and art). Assu is a fully realized flowing river of perfection. Another elite release from the Bafe's Factory label, and a wondrous disc to add to your library. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

  ©Reviewed by Lee Henderson 4 - 22 - 2019
   

 
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BIG BEAUTIFUL NOISE
 

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ACQUA FRAGILE
Moving Fragments
(2023 - Maracash - Italy)


https://maracashrecords.bandcamp.com/album/moving-fragments


  A group who have the uncanny talent of keeping their classic  sound along with staying up tpo date. This amazing return is from 1970's Italian progressive rock outfit, with frontier man lead vocal Bernardo Lanzetti, who made this band and some PFM albums so specifically brilliant. At this decade, to expect more beauty would be a fantasy, yet it is set before your ears, even with the first notes, this masterpiece of Italian, (and not only Italian) progressive rock that certainly grasps the notion of what the genre of "progressive" was always meant to be. ACQUA FRAGILE create another sweetly classic knockout recording, not with even a heavy breath of past to present effort.  In fact, it sounds and feels more authentic than ever.  Bernardo sounds as if he never aged a week, and all muscians present are at full force, not passing up the chance to make another massively classic album.   An album to put Acqua Fragile at the top of the few chosen progressive rock choices of all time. The first song ('Her Shadlows Torture' 05:52 - editors note:  A misspell on the 'Shadows' which is on Bandcamp at this writing - but is correct as 'Her Shadow's Torture' on physical CD)  hug you and give all relief, as to any possible doubts of a long awaited fourth album by this top notch Italian band. I claim it will leave your heart lay bleeding. Grab the spectral energy and enjoy a glimpse of beautiful cocoon birth.

  Not one song is with sacrifice, even a wink of lamb. In fact, some elements are added to further enchance and stun the audience, such as inclusive female vocals by Rossella Volta. The bulk of the outfit is Piero Canavera (drums, percussion, vocals),  Franz Dondi (bass), Bernardo Lanzetti (lead vocals, guitar, Glovox),  Stefano Pantaleoni (keyboards),  Claudio Tuma (guitars), with special aid by (aforementioned vocalist Rosella Voita) ,  Gigi Cavalli Cocchi - drums (1,6),  Sergio Ponti - drums (4,9), Stef Burns- guitar (2),  Brian Belloni - guitar (4),  Davide Piombino - 7 string guitar (5),  and David Jackson - sax & flute (6). Could you ask for more?   After one listen you cannot want more. Thank Maracash label (Italy) for standing behind so many great Italian artists who have done the blood, sweat, and tears in earlier years, and deserve the attention now.
Although the band name translates to 'Fragile Water', it might be better described as Precious Water at this point and time in our decreasingly cared for world. Perhaps even better, Rare Water. The beauty of this entire recording is apparent, true, sincere, and a step forward. Better than one would dream of, past the point of how all old fans could imagine, and  actually done in the upper atmospheres of what anyone could have dreamed of. Everyone is top notch and most of all, Lanzetti is 100% present, making it another masterpiece.  It is my deep recommendartion for all fans of both classic progressive rock and the new fields of progressive music to give this a direct and full attention (no distractions) listen. RECOMMENDED.
  ©Reviewed by Lee Henderson 1 - 19 - 2024


 

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