'Cartagra' gets Bekki's second CD off to a solid start. It has romantic overtones which is perhaps no surprise because I believe some of the tracks were penned for accompani-ment to a Rudolf Valentino film. Unfortunately the project never came to fruition but the music certainly has, and the combination of sequencing and infectious melody make this a satisfying opener. 'Mistral' continues the romantic air, with Eastern desert references that reinforce the theme's in the music. The similarity to Bekki's first CD are striking in places, which will surely please the many admirers of 'Elysian Fields'. In common with that release the melodies often have infectious qualities which encourage repeat playings. I get the impression at times that this is formula EM, with no real surprises around the corner, but it's carried off with such style and conviction that any criticism would ring very hollow. 'Sorocco' continues the laid back air with gushing themes which swirl around a steady sequenced rhythm and 'Silhouettes' presents very much the same elements is a more strident fashion.
'Night Flier' changes the emphasis slightly. The rhythm has a funkier feel and the melody is busier and overall it's another successful outing. 'River of Nights Dreaming' brings the sequencing more to the fore and picks out another well constructed melody with a guitar voice producing a sound which seems almost characteristic of the Derby area. 'The Talisman' I believe was aired at Bekki's EMMA#4 performance and it really is a superb mixture of uptempo sequencing and complimentary motifs. 'Azmara' sounds just like the main titles of a 30's romantic film with more sweeping synth lines and heart-felt themes. Piano detail also adds to the poignant air. 'Hymn for Her' combines an epic dune swept vista with novelty detail and the result is again impressive. Not quite as impressive though as the last piece which is a remix of 'The Talisman' featuring our very own Dave Barker. Dave cranks up the sequences, gets the filter sweeps up and running and gives the track a trademark feel which should have 'Asana' fans in raptures. The original melody is woven into the fabric in seamless fashion, and the result sound so natural it's hard to believe that the track didn't start out life in this form.
Even the most ardent "blood and thunder" EM fans must accept that without variety things would quickly become very stale. If you want an example of quality music at the romantic, symphonic end of the scale than you could not find much better than this. Yes, your wife, mum, gran and auntie will all love it but you have to give them a break sometime! (GG)
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