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review by Michael Debbage Despite the unusual album cover from last year's The Light Dance, [it] was one of 2003's pleasant surprises. Much like Karunesh's recent project, Siebert played the balancing act of East meets West with very satisfying results. The title of his most recent project along with the artwork of the CD booklet certainly will not mislead the public as to his intentions. Clearly, there is a greater Eastern philosophy influence present on this CD. I am sure the intent is to make the greater degree to the left feel right, but overall this project has very mixed results. I will give Siebert full marks on his willingness not to mislead his listening public. The moment my eyes made contact with the front cover, which entails a Buddhist monk on his knees praying, emphasized by its six-syllable mantra of the album title, one can certainly not condemn Siebert for [any] trickery. His intentions are obvious. The liner notes continue to educate the public of his religious preferences, which also notes that the project was created from March 1999 through March of 2000 for a multi-vision project entitled "Tibet Impressions." In relation to The Light Dance, this visitation is essentially a retrospective gander at history versus a step forward in Siebert's natural progression as a commercially viable artist. The album starts off on a good note with the Japanese-influenced title track that also includes some vocalization. Fortunately, the vocal work emphasizes singing versus chanting, in contrast to "Lotus Call Part 2" which sounds downright eerie. Which brings to mind the entire conflict of this CD. Though there are moments of Westernization integrated with Eastern influences as further reflected in "Om Mani Peme Hung Hrih" it is countered once again courtesy of the peculiar "Lotus Call Part 1 (Vajra Guru Mantra)." This eclectic approach is admirable; however, for listeners like myself, it creates a lack of focus that results in a frustrating audio experience. The above trend continues throughout the album, yet those who enjoy Siebert's philosophical wanderings may find this an exciting find. As for these commercially viable ears, it is just a little too far to the left than I care for. However, my cursory impression of Siebert's brand new material, Wave Hands Like Clouds gives me an indication that this was a momentary lapse in judgment. |
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