Search - Tim Clark :: Tales of the Sun People

An Interplanetary Gypsy Western

Douglas J. Hultsman | Corinth, Texas United States | 08/15/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This is minimalist Symphonic/World/Space music at it's best. Not overdone, it is nonetheless well crafted. Using only a sparse assortment of early samplers and PCM synth's, Mr. Clark creates tunes of rhythmic beauty as they follow the nomadic journeys of the imaginary Sun People. I don't like every song on the CD, so I will only give an overview of the 5 outstanding tunes on this 1990 release. Silver Caravan with it's cascading bell textures and interesting percussion, including clink gongs and jingle strings sets the stage for this so called "Interplanetary Gypsy Western". Desert Rain slows down the pace a bit, with oboe and Japanese flutes performing over a simplistic marimba pattern. Shadow River.....the oh so dreamy texture set by a breathy flute and synth vox over a polyrhythmic kalimba and log drum flows along at alternating time signatures like the Shadow River itself...fantastic! The Song of the Sand starts with a lonely conch until joined by a synth vox and reed strings. Dumbeks set a subdued polyrhythmic backing along with wind bells to set the stage for a welcome return of the conch and saz. Then it's time for the Sun People to bid adieu, and they get ready to celebrate with the Waltz for the Last Full Moon. This 11:00 pseudo-symphonic extravaganza starts out slowly and builds to a waltz step before landing with an oboe saying goodbye over a lovely assortment of reed strings and midi'ed tinkle bells. The Sun People are putting out their fires so that they can contemplate the visions in the night sky. They sincerely hope that you have enjoyed sharing their journeys."

Deep and soothing, placing the soul at ease

Douglas J. Hultsman | 06/06/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I do not have the comple cd, yet just by listening to silver caravan many years ago, there is no doubt in my mind of the effect Mr. Clark's music. as I mentioned before , it is soothing to the soul. G.C."