Search - Between :: Dharana

An artistic wonder, music without compromise or category

12/22/1998

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Recorded in the mid 1970's, Dharana is a recording that contains the influence of many cultures, both oriental and occidental. The leader of the group, keybordist Peter Michael Hamel, had a vision of "World Music" long before it became a fashionable 90's subtrend. This vision came to fruition in Dharana, a marvelous recording I purchased on LP by mail back around 1982. After listening to it for 20 years I still find it impossible to categorize. The side long title piece caught my attention on a public radio station at the time, and I understand the group is well known in Europe, especially Germany. African beats, Indian and Arabic modalities, touches of Jazz rhythm and American folk combine for a wonderful and unique recording that I have never found tiresome. The music is accessible without being simplistic and shows not the least bit of artistic compromise. Highly recommended for those with a taste for beauty and musical adventure. It has continued to amaze me over the years as well as those I have chosen to play it for. I have NEVER seen this recording in a music shop and was shocked to find it still existed, for sale here on AMAZON.COM. It is a recording well worth your time and attention. (Update: The CD contains an additional 17 minute piece titled "The Voice Of Silence". It is of the same high standard as the LP release.)"

Between - 'Dharana' (Yvp) 4 1/2 stars

Mike Reed | USA | 02/15/2006

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Originally released in 1978,looks to be Between's third proper release.Personally,I like their first album,'And The Waters Opened' a tad better.Tough to describe,but try experimental/kraut-like.Some just might simply tag it as 'World Music'.Two best tracks are the title cut "Dharana" and the seventeen minute epic "The Voice Of Silence"(nearly worth the price of admission alone).Line-up:Peter Michael Hamel-keyboards&organ,Robert Detree-acoustic guitar,Robert Eliscu-oboe and Cotch Black-percussion.A nice piece to own."

Group Between Hamel found

William J. Wagner Jr. | 07/15/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Trust this aging hippie. I looked for this title for years. Peter Michael Hamel showed up but not Group Between. Between worked go figure!



Bill"