Record Reviews

DAVE KULJU ~ ABSTRACT EXPRESSION NOT ON LABEL (Barcode: 801495186527) ~ USA ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 2005 - 2007 Released: 2007 1st album by US guitarist Dave KuljuFind albums by this artist, who is a member of the Prog ensemble ElectrumFind albums by this artist. Recorded over a period of two years (with some music written even before the actual recording), it presents a portrait of a sensible artist, who shares with us his intellectual and emotional travels in search of his musical identity. Kulju plays almost all the instruments involved in the recording, using a few guest musicians to spice the wonderful musical dish here and there. The album’s title fits the musical contents perfectly – although mostly in the vein of instrumental Prog, it includes many different moods and influences, such as contemporary classical music and Fusion. The music is both intelligent and emotional, flowing smoothly from one theme to the next, merging perfectly the electric and acoustic instruments. The lead guitar is not trying to show off or dazzle, but simply plays the lead parts in perfect harmony with the other instruments. It’s quite evident that Kulju wished to present a total musical portrait of himself as a composer and player, rather than enter a pissing contest with others. The longest track on the album, called “Somnium”, (which lasts for over 15 minutes) is quite brilliant and my favorite tune, but all the music is truly excellent. Somehow the mood of the album reminds me of Scandinavian Prog, perhaps a bit of AnekdotenFind albums by this artist, but that’s just my association. This album will probably (and sadly) be heard by a very limited number of people, but if you’re up to an intellectual challenge please don’t miss it. The beautifully designed packaging will be a bonus. Kudos Dave!

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

DAVE KULJU ~ NOTES IN THE MARGIN NOT ON LABEL (Barcode: 794465911758) ~ USA ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 2009 - 2010 Released: 2010 2nd album by US multi-instrumentalist / composer Dave KuljuFind albums by this artist (member of the Prog ensemble ElectrumFind albums by this artist), which continues the excellent work of his debut release. Kulju plays almost all the instruments on the album with the exception of drums, which are played by his old mate Frank BasileFind albums by this artist and a violin part by Ian CameronFind albums by this artist on one song. The majestic epic, called "A Poet´s Talespin", almost half an hour long, is the centerpiece of the album and features the vocal talents of Annie OyaFind albums by this artist, with the rest of the material being entirely instrumental. The music is rich in textures and moods, mostly lyrical and somewhat dark, but always interesting and constantly developing. Kulju plays all the instruments with deep sensitivity, shunning any unnecessary extravagance. Both his keyboards (usually background) and guitar (foreground) playing is intelligent and sensitive, suiting his music perfectly. Although obviously well within the realms of Prog, the music contained herein breaches genre boundaries and amalgamates various inspirations, from Classical to Metal, as well as folkloristic (mostly Celtic this time) motifs. In this case it all works perfectly creating a piece of music, which is truly gratifying to listen to. It is a real pleasure to see a musician, who is consistent in his work, not rushing anything and taking himself and his music seriously. Prog fans should have a field day with this album, but anybody blessed with a sensitive pair of ears should also be able to enjoy it immensely. The beautifully designed packaging is a bonus. Kudos again Dave!

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend