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review by Bill Binkelman Here's a simple, unassuming yet unquestionably pleasant album of assorted guitar (acoustic and low-key electric) instrumentals (and two numbers which feature repeated Hindu chants) that sits at the intersection of smooth jazz, adult contemporary and new age, though probably closer to the first two than the last one. The two "chant" numbers (featuring a repeated sung phrase in each case) do not distract in the least from the overall appeal of the recording, so don't be dissuaded by their presence. The other nine tracks on the CD vary but within a definite boundary. The subdued, somewhat melancholy "RAM" has double-tracked acoustic guitars set off against a backdrop of falling rain. The music switches from downtempo and relaxed to subtly powerful via Michael Hedges-like clipped chords and emotional intensity, but it's still relatively relaxed, and the song closes in the same opening melancholy mood. "Sun God" is a cheery affair that also offers a smattering of twinkling bell tones in addition to guitars in all three channels, including some nice and smooth electric lead lines that pan across the soundfield left to right and back again. "Oceanway" comes the closest to being traditional "new age music" especially with the insertion of some wave sound effects (One bit of advice I'd give the artist is to bring up his nature sounds up in the mix, since they are so subdued as to be almost imperceptible most of the time). On this cut, a single acoustic guitar is played in a midtempo style until midway through the cut when Cliff (no last name is listed in the liner notes) mixes in another guitar and picks up the pace while also infusing the music with a dash of tropical spice via both melody and rhythm. "Alimi Theme" comes the closest to minimalism on the CD with sparse plaintive acoustic notes sighing softly at its opening, however the artist takes the song in a more upbeat direction at the midpoint by adding multiple acoustic and jazz-style electric guitars. The result, while feeling a bit as if it was hatched from a split-personality, is still entirely agreeable and is aided by the artist's self-assurance as he transitions from subdued to kick-up-your-heels energy. Sunny day vibes flow through "Indus Valley" with both short clipped chords and mellow strummed ones. A little more variation/improvisation in this song would have turned it from being merely okay to very good. The closing number features a wordless "aum" chant over a Bruce BecVar-like series of sparkling acoustic guitar. Perfect Universe is a solid effort and has definite charm and appeal, especially for guitar lovers. Cliff could improve in some areas (the production is workman-like with no major flaws but also no real "gee whiz" moments either) but he definitely can play guitar and he displays a knack for etching out some nice licks and catchy hooks. For a first effort, this is a good one and I hope to hear a second album from him someday. |
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