Creative and Up!
author: Rob Darby
Anyone who thinks the theremin is just a sci-fi effect instrument hasn't heard this music. In the hands of Blake Jones (or, more properly, NEAR the hands...), the theremin is a musical instrument. On "Theremins Of Mystery," it's other-worldy sound is combined very effectively with great pop sensibilities. "Astronauts In Trouble" opens the CD with a wonderfully suspenseful melody played on the theremin and doubled with a celeste sound. This is supported by very effective percussion and by guitar that makes you think maybe, just maybe, the astronauts got into trouble while surfing. Track 2,"Summer" is a feel-good, folksy piece. Beautiful, just as Summer ought to be. "Music to Change Clothes By" has, once again, a very strong melody, and superb production. It might inspire you to spend the day trying on all your old clothes--just so you have an excuse to listen one more time. "Frippernesia" is not something to sleep to, but it is very catchy, but in a way that would make Mr. F. proud. And of course, there's Vivaldi's famous Concerto for Mandolin and Theremin. Even with the prominence of the theremin, Blake's arrangement takes you to an 18th-century Italian country setting. "Overture" wraps it all up as a kind of End Credits piece with a dash of Sgt. Pepper's era Beatles influence. This is a very melodic album. It is also a listening adventure, considering the diversity of sounds and influences that have their place in the music. For the sake of brevity, I have not commented on every track, but they are all worthy of a good listen. There's not a clunker in the bunch!
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