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Knitting by Twilight — Riding the Way Back
(It's Twilight Time RTE-6, 2009, CD)

by Paul Hightower, Published 2010-07-01

Riding the Way Back Cover art The Knitting by Twilight crew have been busy lately, with their last album out in 2008 and the Herd of Mers spin-off release coming late that same year. Though this isn’t a full-length CD — the five tracks clock in at just under 20 minutes — it should satisfy those interested in any of John and Karen Orsi’s music. Joining them again are Manny Silva and Mike Marando on guitars and bass, with John Orsi handling all the percussion and occasional keyboards and Karen on guitar. The minimalist and garage band ethic of earlier work returns on several tracks, including the Eno-esque songs “Mok’s Glacier” and “Blue Ink for Fountain Pens.” A grittier and harsher edge imbues the opener “Shiver,” and John dominates the closing song “Twirling Guitars and Glad Tambourines” with his trademark percussion work that focuses almost entirely on beaten metal objects and bells. On this track, Karen provides a rubbery guitar lead that evokes Adrian Belew’s playfulness. Besides John’s penchant for unconventional percussion, this spirit of adventure is what characterizes this collection, as well as past Knitting by Twilight albums. The Orsis definitely seem to have forged a comfortable and collaborative musical relationship and based on this brief missive, future offerings—which will hopefully include another full-length release — should be worth a listen.

Filed under: New releases, Issue 38, 2009 releases

Related artist(s): Knitting by Twilight

 

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