Reviewed by Tim Cockram Kerry Livgren, veteran of Kansas and AD takes us on a fascinating instrumental musical journey on this set. Before any Kansas or AD affectionados rush out and buy this on the strength of being a Livgren album, I would warn them not to expect polished AOR. A better description would be a contemporary "Pictures At An Exhibition". Don't mis-understand - not a musical meditation on a seascape, contractual-obligation-album. Definitely not! This album has the stamp of a deeply considered labour of love. Each track creates a vivid image in the listener's mind (unfortunately, the only clues the listener gets as to each piece's inspiration are the composition's titles - more sleeve notes please). 'One Of Several Possible Musiks' bears the distinctive Livgren musical stamp, that pot pouri of styles that has permeated much of his previous works. Stylistically, it's rock with hints of baroque, progressive rock, Asian, etc, each style used to strengthen the emotive imagery created by each track. Some tracks are easier to relate to than others. In particular, "Colonnade Gardens" is immensely powerful, for me its imagery knock the socks off 20% of the movies I've seen in the last year. The big question; should you put out your hard-earned cash to acquire a copy? No, if you're looking for CCM product, but yes if you want to take time on a thoughtful musical statement, and are prepared to put the maximum (many listens) in to get the maximum out.
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. Interested in reviewing music? Find out
more here.
|