A Vast Expanse of Ocean
Nicholas Croft | New York | 05/24/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"'Pacifica' was composed at Big Sur, in a cabin overlooking a vast expanse of ocean.
According to the liner notes, Mr. Frith witnessed the death of two friends and the birth of his daughter during this creative period.
It seems possible to hear some of this influence in 'Pacifica' or at least, the 19 musicians of the Eva Kant ensemble were sensitive to these profound facts in Mr. Frith's life. The music is contemplative, but not somber. The dynamic range of the work is low: the work is partly ambient, however it is also suitable for attentive listening.
'Pacifica' features text by Pablo Neruda, amidst what sounds to be the crackling of a campfire: 'I want what I love to go on living' intones the reader in spanish. One can't help but feel, that with music like this, the quality of our life is improved in the present."