Eric van der Heijden
Da Capo - The Light Beyond
After a 7 year gap here at last is Eric van der Heijden’s second CD. Firstly, it’s worth pointing out that when you slot this album into the CD it will register as 36 tracks, though only 9 have music on them. Tracks 9-35 each play as 3 seconds of silence. Why? Haven’t a clue! My first guess was a manufacturing "balls up" - however the last track (‘Eµlog’) is referred to as 36 on the CD printing so it looks planned (something to do with µ?)

The album opens with ‘Tempo Rubato’ and fans of the epic sweeping symphonics of Robert Fox will immediately be in raptures. This is a fantastic start which develops into a subtle work of synth and piano interplay. A brief return to "the wall of sound" suggest the track is closing - but no, instead a subtle harpsichord sequence envelopes a luscious mellotron/flute motif to finally end the piece. Subsequent tracks proceed to serve up delightful melodics, full of subtle guile and meaning.

Sequences are carefully nurtured on some of the pieces to create the perfect backdrop. On the title track for example they underpin a theme which slowly builds to a crescendo. ‘Attacca Con Brio’ is a more uptempo number with deep chugging sequences, well constructed motifs and some choice effects. ‘Futura Immacolata’ acts an a beautiful introduction to ‘Crescendo A Due’ which again gathers latent energy as pounding percussion and marvellous melodics combine.

Either prod the skip button like frenzy or wait a minute or so and we come to the final piece ‘Eµlog’ - and it’s worth finding. Ron Boots fans - come on down! Masterful multi-sequenced layers, driving melodics - it’s all here.

This is a hugely impressive album. Very personal in style, and very much homage to the things which are important - children, family, friends etc. Sometimes, no matter how heartfelt, this sort of concept can be a disappointment. Not here though. When it catches you in the mood, this all sounds so right. (GG)

PS Somehow that cover looks familiar...

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