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Real life is enough for most people. Thanks goodness that James Murray is not like most people. His album Falling Backwards (47'05") edges into our awareness, and warms us up in a most welcome way. His instruments, an extension of his consciousness, do not just make sound - they are part of the spirit of this musician. Realized with a kind of cursive grace, the seven tracks show strength in their stillness. As parts of the brain are held back by language, so it may be that in his organization of sound we find Murray's conceptions and emotions becoming concrete and communicable. From a palpable unease and the whisper of spirits, to electronic shadows and magnetized clouds, Falling Backwards provides a better expression in the harmony of tones. Each piece begins as an impression within the composer's head. As vivid aural tints form a handsome contrast, the movement of sonic forms becomes active and charged with electricity. Working with the understanding that sound expresses something in itself, Murray indulges his arrangements with lush ornamental pads and sterling, swirling lines of vaporous, recurring notes. Everything in his turbulent sonic landscapes is in motion, yet we never seem to move very far from the dreamy dark holler from where Murray remains in repose. To some Falling Backwards may remain a blur, but to others of us - who hear the interior hum of drama in each and every moment - we cannot help but imagine the futures we will dream about while under its influence.
- Chuck van Zyl/STAR'S END 4 October 2018 |
