thomas otten - close to silence (2000)

This album is a curious surprise. The countertenor voice is an instrument that is rarely written for in this era, and just as rarely heard. To find it at the center fo an album that is thoroughly modern, and possibly even popular is to experience a strange moment of dislocation, as something old is used to evoke something contemporary. Frederic Momont is the composer of a set of pieces that are hard to pin down, and Thomas Otten is the chosen voice.

Working with Otten are classical elements as well as electronic. You will hear instrument samples, piano violins, cello and the true soprano voice of Caroline Mutel. Otten's voice itself has a fragile melancholy sweetness to it that can haunt the listener, blending with Mutel's crystalline sound occasionally to provide a fascinating contrast.

Momont's music is easy going and melodic, very much a vehicle for Otten's work with nary a touch of conflict between the two. The pieces alternate between classical texts such as Ombra Mai Fu and a Petrarch Sonnet to curious sets of syllables as in Close To Silence as well as verses by Momont. All this makes for an album that could be perceived very serious music or as polished background music. Very likeable in any case.




Tracks
1. Qualitati Umane
2. Dulciate
3. Espiritu
4. Divigi Tu
5. Close To Silence
6. Underdown Aperture
7. Utter Confusion
8. Sanza Listen
9. Ombra Mai Fu
10. Merciful Raindrops
11. Offelini
12. A Quiet Moment Listen

download here:

http://rapidshare.com/files/11106014/TO_CtSl.rar.html
PASS :7002