Okay … you know the deal by now. I’m discussing the music I’ve been listening to, old and new. Most of what I write isn’t very formal, particularly for the older material. I’m just sharing some thoughts. Feel free to share your own.

In the interest of separating new music from old, I’ll provide a link to where you can find the new material.

RADIOHEAD, The Bends. I was a little late to the Radiohead party. Sure, I’d heard “Creep” being played all over Alternative radio, but that wasn’t enough to hook me. The album that got me was OK Computer, and it got me in a huge way. That made exploring The Bends a no-brainer, and man was I amazed!

I was able to pick up on how this album led to the first one I heard rather quickly. But this is one amazing set of songs! I know they’re great because they have me staring at my guitars and wanting to join in (I’ve been learning “Nice Dream”). The songs on this album may not be the most uplifting, but they are fantastic all the same.

Oh … I bought the deluxe set of this album, and the B-sides are every bit as good as what made the proper album! How often do you get to say that?

FRANCIS COFONE, Space Fabric. A gorgeous collection of improvised soundscapes by guitarist Francis Cofone and Touch Guitar U8 master Markus Reuter (credited on this album as providing “treatments”). There’s something to be said about making music in the moment. Even more so when the music sounds like it’s coming from another dimension. Or simply … ahem … space. You’re not required to do anything with this music. Rather, just sit back and experience it. Words provide little to do this music justice.

https://franciscofone.bandcamp.com/album/space-fabric

RICH PELLEGRIN, Topography. A lush collection of compositions and improvisations from pianist Rich Pellegrin and saxophonist Neil Welch, inspired by the landscapes of the American west. The music is open-ended and spacious, which definitely creates mental images, even if you’re not seeing the exact same thing in the same region. Pellegrin titled his songs after what he’s seeing. Personally, I see a lonely drive amongst desert landscapes, with the occasional building to remind you that civilization hasn’t quite reached this region. But that’s not a bad thing. Untouched land can be the best land. Get out of the car and take it in.

https://richpellegrin.bandcamp.com/album/topography

RAMIN DJAWADI, Westworld: Music from the HBO Series, Season 1. Westworld started out as a compelling television show that turned into a convoluted mess. It was cancelled after four seasons. On the plus side, this is the music (specifically the show’s theme) that spurred me to learn to play the piano! That theme is just gorgeous! The only thing I don’t like about it is that it’s way too short!

And then there’s the added bonus of hearing songs from Radiohead, Soundgarden, and The Rolling Stones as arranged for an old school player piano. Just fascinating!

The show may have died, but this music will live on for the rest of my days.

#cirdecsongs

If you would like to have your music reviewed, please contact me at cirdecsongs@gmail.com