Search - Michael Whalen :: Border of Dusk

What about Border of Dusk ?

06/15/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"There's probably no point in belaboring the obvious - "Border of Dusk" is a great album. What's interesting, though, is what makes it great. "Border of Dusk" is highly re-playable mainly because it is complex, though not in the sense of obscure or hard to understand. Rather, it's rich in tone qualities, with lush orchestration and many tempo changes. Despite the wide range of musical territory explored, "Border of Dusk" is not overwhelming or disturbing. There are a lot of subtleties that don't become apparent until after 4-5 listenings. Everything is seamlessly integrated, like it's perfectly natural, yet it's not predictable. Michael's trademark ambiences pervade this recording, but they appear in a totally new context.Which may have something to do with the guest artists. But there are also many pleasant surprises because of unusual percussion and wind instruments. Here "unusual" should not be taken to mean weird/inappropriate. Actually, it's all perfectly done. Stylistically, "Border of Dusk" is hard to pin down. It has overt jazz and fusion elements, but it's done in a novel way that goes beyond any stereotypes the listener might have about these styles. There is a special combination of tone colors, structure, and improvisation that makes "Border of Dusk" different from most other jazz/fusion recordings. The music has momentum because it has great grooves, but it's not just about rhythm. Likewise, classic Fender Rhodes appear on the album, but it's not just about electric pianos. The Rhodes' vintage sound is unmistakable, but again the context is totally new and contemporary. Also included are some interesting ambient passages that you probably would not expect on a traditional jazz record.Overall, "Border of Dusk" is refreshing and interesting, very worthy of the repeated listenings it calls for."

Expect the unexpected.

Mark | Phoenix, Arizona | 08/16/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The Border of Dusk is a musical feast despite the fact that it is quite a departure from his flawless 1996 release of Nightscenes (which still remains my favorite of the two). You can't help but admire a talented artist who explores new territory, and does so with creativity. With the album enjoyable from the first listening, it offers more suprises upon further listenings with its complex and rather long tunes. As diverse as Michael Whalen has proven to be with the release of The Border of Dusk, you might want to put all your expectations of him aside. This is an artist in the front line of musical exploration. You only thought you knew Michael Whalen."