Search - Montreux :: Sign Language (Repackaged)

Trans-Genre Musicianship

Marc Ruby? | Warren, MI USA | 02/12/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Montreux is a remakable, if somewhat eclectic group of musicians that were one of the highpoints of the 80's musical scene. Composed of Barbara Higbee, Darol Anger, Mike Marshall, Andy Narell, and Michael Manring, there was no lack of talent. Treading lightly on the boundaries between new age, jazz, country, and sheer inventiveness they drew many fans and accolades over the years, many of them are still actively recording.It isn't easy to pin down their style to any one genre or sound. The presence of Darol Anger on violin provides unexpected blue grass effects in the middle what would otherwise be mainstream new age. Infectious and ingenious rhythmic approaches abound. In the midst of upbeat acoustic stylings, electronic choruses will put in opportune appearances. As with all good albums, repeated listening reveals fine details of musicianship and texture.Whether you like upbeat works like Skywriting or To Be, the melodic style of Sweet Intentions, or more experimantal pieces like Sign Language and Jacob Do Bandalim there is a lot to listen to. None of which is 'typical' fare. If you like pleasant surprised, stop here a while."