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Reviews

Billy Currie — Still Movement
(Puzzle PZLCD109, 2004, CD)

by Jeff Melton, Published 2005-09-01

Still Movement Cover art Billy Currie’s most recent solo album can be categorized as being squarely in the new age/techno bordering on ambient but within in a slightly more favorable light. Currie has continued to streamline his unified orchestral approach to composition by relying predominantly on digital electronics to emphasize mood with and less human intervention. The delivery is where it all counts as heard on the lead track; “Waving Hands in Crowd” is characterized by a subtle synth wash under a piano based melody. Next up is “Simultaneity” with its bright pulsing disposition that creates some of that old feel he’s known for with some guitar brandishing as well. Currie was previously known with Ultravox for his lush backdrops and searing electric viola and the work here is consistent with older works. Programmed drums saddle modern composing at times making them tiresome if mixed up front in the mix which is not necessarily the case here. When it all works best is on “The Waves Look Sleepy” where Currie’s looped viola solo is backed by a swelling tranquil cloud of synthesizers that simulate a perpetually changing shoreline. Currie enters the realm of the more serene lullaby on the CD’s title track, where much of the main theme compares to that of Brian Eno’s “Music for Films” series. Also of note is the piece, “The Other World” which imparts a precious serene form. Overall Currie’s ability to arrange themes is as competent as ever.

Filed under: New releases, Issue 32, 2004 releases

Related artist(s): Billy Currie

 

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