Bekki Williams
Edge of Human
CD / 10 tracks / 47.42 mins
Play Sample:   56K Dialup   Broadband
Download Sample:   500K   1.5Mb
(Excerpt from track(s) 'The Azmara Variations')
 
Orchestral pads and angelic wordless vocal colouring provide a gorgeous opening to 'Amber Dawn (Twilight Mix)'. An exquisite plucked string melody, which is mirrored by an impressive sequence, reaches for the heart. Comparisons to Andy Pickford's solo works have been made in the past and never more so would this apply. Energetic drums surge forward creating a wonderful feeling of euphoric joy. The awesome melodies come one after another, displaying a sensitive feminine touch. 'First Light (awakening)' has a decidedly Tangerine Dream 'Legend' feel. Massed strings swell creating a tremendously lush and uplifting backing over which faintly Celtic sounding lead lines whisper delicately from the middle of the mix. 'Firewalk' is like an orchestral score, all moody and brooding but with rousing, almost militaristic, drums. On 'Ephemeris' Gregorian chants mix with soprano voices creating the most tender of sounds over which a delicate tinkling sequence and stunning cello lead, complimented by equally as impressive acoustic guitar, weave their gorgeous magic. Electronic Music doesn't get any more beautiful than this.

'Where Times Collide' is a very busy number where drum flourishes drive over soft wordless vocal pads, sawing strings and massed choir effects heightening the excitement. Music to accompany an army surging over rolling hills! It's back to brooding realms for 'The Azmara Variations'. There is a slightly Eastern sound to the melodies but the backing once again made me think of 'Legend'. The mood lifts after the half way mark as brass leads alternate with strings then piano as we reach a joyous conclusion. Sequences bounce from the speakers as 'Ever-Changing Calm' surges forward. It's such a fun track full of syncopation and life. It's impossible to keep the body still. Dance, jump around the room- punch the air- whatever, as long as you don't remain on the sofa! One of my favourite tracks on the album. 'Xanthe's Garden' is initially another tender one with brass lead floating above windy effects. After this intro however rhythmic guitar and drums add a little pace but without completely overpowering the delicate melody.

'The Human Edge' is again somewhat Pickford like- during one of his more tender moments. Acoustic guitar mixes with gorgeous string sounds, weaving the most wonderful uplifting melodies that reach right for the soul. We finish with the original version of 'Amber Dawn' that appeared on the compilation album 'The Sky Goes all the way Home'. Melodically it is just as strong as the version which started the album but overall is more tender, with less of the driving power but all the beauty. (DL)

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