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Carl Weingarten — Laughing at Paradise
(Multiphase Records MP-CD112, 1988/2003, CD)

by Peter Thelen, Published 2003-08-01

Laughing at Paradise Cover art

Originally released in 1988 on cassette only, Weingarten’s second ‘solo’ album is a big change from his earlier Living in the Distant Present, which focused more on a heavily effected ambient guitar approach, or the any of the earlier collaborations with Gale Ormiston and Walter Whitney, which each had their own character. With Laughing at Paradise, much of the material has moved into somewhat of a minimalist chamber realm, featuring powerful solos (guitar, violin, saxes) over repeating figures and sequenced patterns. Interestingly enough, this does not sound like an album by a guitarist in any conventional sense, but instead a composer who is using every resource available to realize his vision. The guest list here is numerous, including regulars RSBryan (percussion), Walter Whitney (synths), Jim Mayer (electric bass), and additional musicians on saxes, violin, viola, voice, and cello. Mayer’s bass injections over Weingarten’s guitar and synth patterns on the hypnotic “Madagascar” are certainly one of the high points, as well as the multi-tracked interlocking acoustic guitar figures on “The Ghost Dances.” The pulsating bass and haunting female voice on “Lemur Nocturne” evoke a sense of stillness amid the busy guitar and synth arpeggiations, while the dual saxes and viola over the oddly sequenced “Romance and Evolution in B minor” provide an unusual perspective. Another of special note is the bonus track “Circle Flight,” a cyclical sequenced piece recalling Indonesian gamelan and the spirit of Terry Riley, ebbing, flowing and blossoming with tonal color. A most welcome reissue!

Filed under: Reissues, Issue 27, 2003 releases, 1988 recordings

Related artist(s): Carl Weingarten, David Udell

More info
http://carlweingarten.bandcamp.com/album/laughing-at-paradise

 

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