Reviewed by Helen Whitall

An epic project inspired by the Biblical narrative, this is Canadian multi-instrumentalist Dennis Hendricksen's "magnum opus"; a full length concept album of vibrant instrumental jazz pieces, each accompanied by a collection of readings, original poetry and artwork. The CD and accompanying mini-anthology are nicely presented in a tin, a touch I liked. The whole project is clearly a labour of love, very carefully thought through, and features a host of talented musicians in addition to Hendriksen himself. The pieces are structured into a series of four "Dreams", the first three followed by edgier pieces called "Visions", and short, calm interludes, "Hiatuses". Musically, "Dream #1 - Waves Flash And Sparks Turn To Wings" conjures up an ocean, whilst readings accompanying the piece explore the idea of God singing the creation into being. Panning effects make the electronic and acoustic sounds swirl about like waves washing in and out on a shore. Occasional squeaks evoke dolphin calls, and gentle percussion the sounds of breaking waves and rustling sand. The piece moves into an upbeat funk rock jam, full of jazz improvisation, with serious solo skills on display. "Vision #1 - A Shadow Falls On The Garden" features shadowy eastern sounds, Indian tabla drums and female vocals over electric guitar. Readings speak about the groan of fallen and suffering creation. This piece has a big sound, with delicious washes of groove as distorted guitars groan like engines. This first "Dream" and "Vision" are followed by "Hiatus #1 - Reflection". This follows on from "Vision #1" in feel, but shimmers a little, unusual chords lending an uncertainty to the sound. The ending is like a record slowing down and getting stuck in a groove, as rain sounds come in, welcoming in "Dream #2 - Many Waters, Many Colours". This piece and its readings reflect on the ambiguities of water, representing both life and death, gift and tears, love and destruction, and the promise-symbol of the rainbow after the Biblical flood. The piece gushes with water through the sound of rainfall and flutes, falling scales and trickling piano. Drama builds with crashing piano, improvising saxophones and cymbals, before ending peacefully with bird calls. The journey through the story of the Bible continues in a similarly creative vein up to the anthemic, improvisational climax of "Dream #4 - The Radiant Abyss, Twelve Pearls And A Throne". My only criticism of the whole project may be that this piece is very long, at over 15 minutes, but it is joyful. A fascinating project unlike any other, and musically brilliant, this would make amazing background or focus music for meditation and creative worship events, as well as being a great listen in itself.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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