Let me state
at the outset that this disc calls for close listening and, perhaps, high
volume. In the background, it's too easy to ignore the intricate interplay
and by default hear this as mood musick
For many, the
draw of this disc will be the three tracks based on compositions by the mystic,
Gurdjieff, but this trio is entrancing in its own right. This is a followup
to a disc, 2004's Chants, Hymns and Dances, also using Gurdjieff compositions,
which I haven't heard. Cellist Lechner is well-known from her ECM New Series
classical discs. Greek pianist Tsabropoulos wrote all the compositions, save
the three attributed to Gurdjieff, which add Lechner to the arranging credits.
My first impression
of the first and title track, "Melos," was Chopin meets Yiddische
yearning. Of course, these aural images are universal. Tsabrous' repeating,
tinkling piano motif and Lechner's aching cello are beautiful. This is the
basic structure for the majority of tracks: piano motifs which repeat and
evolve, sometimes to the point of '60s minimalism; folk-flavored cello melodies
which sometimes swing and often yearn; and Italian percussionist Gandhi's
shimmering support which is perhaps too low in the mix, but serves as connective
tissue between the piano and cello; lots of cymbal and brush punctuated with
low-bass drum taps. Gurdjieff's "Tibetan Dance" has many changes
and chords one stereotypically associates with American Indian music.
Quite beautiful.