Search - Cy Curnin :: Solar Minimum

The Bard of Minimalism

J. Rawlings | Cincinnati, OH USA | 06/30/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Cy Curnin presents his third solo-album and this one represents a major departure in sound and style from prior solo work. Cy is still the lead singer of The Fixx, but has created a niche with his ongoing solo work in parallel.



This album is a mature, message-filled journey through concepts and moods that much of us struggle through. The first listen and consecutive listens prove that this will be in my rotation for a long time. Some could call this compilation "mood music" but isn't all music related to memory and mood? You will find some uplifting messages, challenging quotes, poetic feathering, and some interesting and artsy soundscapes within.



However, be prepared for Cy's "naked" approach to much of the album. It is his most personal to date, and if this is your first Cy Curnin CD and you don't own anything (yet) from The Fixx, you may initially be struck by its tone. Cy is heavily minimalist (ironic phrase, I realize). By minimalist - reduce things in your life, get rid of excess, which will make life not just simpler but more enjoyable. This same message was a major theme of "Saved by Zero" which was a big hit for The Fixx in the 80's. It still applies. He also serves as a bard and messenger of warning, offering themes that range from environmental to social.



Highly recommend taking the plunge and buying the entire album -- Cy's work (and The Fixx) have leaned toward "album rock," which is something many have departed from since the 70's. The album follows many similar and complementing themes, blends them together, and is more than filler with a single intended to be ripped out - a work best listened straight through."