| Accelerating Parcae Amber Spyglass |
Although they’re only a duo, Boston’s Amber Spyglass makes enough beautiful noise for a symphony orchestra. Kelly Godshall’s vocal stylings and keyboard work complement the guitar and programming mastery of John DeGregorio like spiced port complements a cold Cambridge winter. Far too many synthesizer-driven duos create music which is cold, detached and mechanical. The sounds of Amber Spyglass are warm, immediate and organic. Much of this is due to DeGregorio’s choice of instrument. Striking a string produces overtones and harmonics which the best synthesizer cannot duplicate. (Don’t believe me? Find a synthesizer which can duplicate the sound of an acoustic Baby Grand piano, a flamenco guitar, or even a feedback-laden Jimi Hendrix solo). Simply put, the notes produced have more individual variation and more personality than the notes generated by a computer program. DeGregorio puts this to fine use in songs like “Pearls of Blue” and “Hands in Position,” combining an acoustic intro with a clean electric accompaniment. He also takes advantage of the multitude of sounds a talented player can produce with an electric guitar. His Middle Eastern-flavored fills throughout this CD reminded me of a less ego-driven Robert Fripp. Equally important is Kelly Godshall’s throaty, sexy vocals. She combines the passion of a blues diva, with the breath control and tone of a trained vocalist. She handles the tricky progressions on “Pearls of Blue” like a pro, catches the longing and sadness of “Her Dark Swan” and blasts out the Siouxie-esque moans of “Catalyst Groove” with equal flair. Amber Spyglass could have been Another Soulless Darkwave Synth Unit: they could also have been Another Pretty but Forgettable Ethereal Unit. They’ve avoided both traps: instead what they are is one hell of a band, and one which deserves wider notice. If you haven’t heard them yet, do yourself a favor... buy this CD. 1. Pearls of Blue Kelly Godshall: voice, keyboard, lyrics http://www.amberspyglass.net/ |