This San Francisco based band already released a few beautiful albums
in the nineties (the last one being the beautiful "Supernatural Parlour Collection" in 2000), appeared with exclusive tracks
on eight compilations, and collaborated with bands such as Neurosis, Swans or Matmos. Here they're back with an outstanding
new release, a 10'' vinyl containing three tracks with neoclassical and post rock influences. This ep contains three tracks
for over 21 minutes of music. It starts with "Garden of Love", a strong piece of music, melancholic and powerful, fragile
and emotional. Musically it's not that far from Jarboe, or from post rock acts such as Tarentel. Cellos and violins, drums
and a heavenly voice create an unique atmosphere. The second track, " Autonomy Suite", is instrumental only, with more drums
and energy, in the best post rock tradition. It stands as a good connection between the first and final track, as it is not
only the most powerful one, but also the shortest of the ep. The final track, "Still Point (2 movements)", is a splendid
ethereal piece of music, for more than 10 minutes length, with a slow rhythm, romantic strings, and dreamy vocals. Certainly
one of the most beautiful songs ever recorded by Amber Asylum. Heavenly Voices at its best. And finally, this is all
available on vinyl, which looks and sounds so much better than on CD. Here you are all ingredients to have a superb record
by an outstanding band.
Strongly recommended !
Stéphane F.
Winter 2006
p.s.: this is a self-released 10" vinyl record, so you can purchase it directly from the band. Just go to the following
page to order: www.amberasylum.com/shop_body.html
More information: www.amberasylum.com