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review by Dene Bebbington Chuck Wild (the man behind the Liquid Mind moniker) continues his series of music for de-stressing with this latest release put out on the Real Music label. By now we know to expect the warning against operating vehicles or dangerous machinery while listening to this music. Indeed, there are times and places where this kind of slow relaxing music is best appreciated, and while busy or otherwise occupied isn't one of them. The longest track "Gently Down" gets the album started. Doing just what the title says this track brings the listener's mind down from the fast pace of modern life to a more comfortable tempo. Synth created sounds brush through the soundscape like light linen curtains slowly billowing in a gentle breeze; as the track progresses light as a feather "Aaaah" style wordless vocals by Chuck and A.J. Teshin seamlessly blend in. In places we also hear things like gentle tapping and fluttering sounds that add a bit of variety. Out of the six tracks on this album the first two comprise nearly half the length. The second track "Into the Silence of My Being" takes us to a more earnest realm than its predecessor - here the synth washes have a deeper and more contemplative character. In the liner notes Chuck has given a brief description of what each track means for him, so the listener could use that as a guide of how to take the music - or better still, go with your own take on it. His particular form of calmness induced through synth washes, vocals, and gentle sequences works well. As with R.D. Jansen's music, I sometimes feel that a melody is within reach but isn't quite grasped. Reflection is the second Liquid Mind album that I've heard so far. By now it seems apparent that the series is fairly predictable in content, one is likely to encounter similar sounds and motifs from what's gone before. And that's okay, my perspective is that the important thing is not to find something different each time but to find new variations of calm. Put this CD on and escape from the rat race for a soothing hour. |
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