Search - Alio Die, Mathias Grassow :: Expanding Horizon

MUSIC OF RENEWAL

Larry L. Looney | Austin, Texas USA | 08/02/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This first collaboration between these two artists is one of the most beautiful ambient recordings I've ever heard. I have a few other cds by Alio Die (Stefano Musso) - every one of them is great, and his work just keeps getting better and better with each release. This album - a 2-cd set containing about 2½ hours of music - is, as another reviewer below stated, perfect for night listening. Night is a time of renewal - and this music has that effect on me. It's relaxing and intelligent - it can be enjoyed ambiently or attentively. There are keyboard-generated sounds, guitars, Indian instruments, and Stefano's trademark natural sounds (water, wind, insects, &c...). According to the notes, Stefano's parts were recorded first, in Italy, then sent to Mathias in Germany for his additions. The result is a very cohesive program - the pieces flow together beautifully, never sounding piecemeal.Some critics write off this sort of music as `noise' or `sonic dabbling' - but in doing so they're simply showing the narrow ruts in which their minds travel. There's a great deal of thought and work that go into works such as this, and these two artists have created something very special and lovely here. I say keep it coming...and I'll continue to be on the lookout for more."

Gentle Ambience From Two Masters

Gordon Danis | Eastchester, New York United States | 05/18/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Anyone looking for a definition of "musical synergy," look no further than this first collaboration between Mathias Grassow & Alio Die (Stefano Musso.) These two masters of gentle ambience, abetted by Mathias' frequent musical partner Klaus Wiese, have created a sonic collage that contains wonderful melodies and luscious ear candy. Even the artwork is first rate. This is a double CD, so there is much to enjoy. Perfect accompaniment for a moonlit drive."

Great music

Robert H. Mcmullin | Cheshire, CT United States | 06/16/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is great music. I'm a fan of Robert Rich and Steve Roach and this music fits right in."