Search - Penguin Cafe Orchestra :: Penguin Cafe Orchestra

Skating on Smooth Ice

Mr. A. Pomeroy | 03/03/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Upon first listen of this disk I was amazed how utterly unique yet palatable the music is. Yes, the approach is strange but this disk is so affectionately addicting in its dreamy presentation one cannot stop listening. So smooth, each track blends with one another yet the styles covered here range from classical ("Numbers 1-4"), to experimental ("Telephone and Rubber Band" - excellent I might add); from light jazz (The Ecstasy of Dancing Fleas) to bluegrass (Yodel 2); and from Cajun-light (Salty Bean Fumble)to even a Penguin Cafe cover of the surf rock classic "Walk Don't Run"! Do not be fooled, ths is not your typical _New Age_ music. This is for those who are a bit adventurous and even admire a tad of humorous, elements in their listening experience."

Penguins Pleasing

musicfan28if | 06/09/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This album should please anyone who likes quirky chamber music, and many of the PBS crowd. "Air A Danser" shows that fiddles can be fun. "Yodel 1" has rhythmic acoustic guitar and drum with some piano runs overlaid, very active yet quiet. "Telephone And Rubber Band" has what sounds like a repeating telephone tone sample combined with some violin full of tonalities. "Cutting Branches" has peaceful vibraphone/bell runs. "The Ecstasy of Dancing Fleas" has an upbeat rhythm suitable for dancing fleas or penguins or dancing anything, really quirky. "Flux" is a pulsating mood with plucking acoustic guitar strings and surging violin tones. Highly recommended, my favorite PCO album!"