Archive for October, 2008
Review of Myagi’s “3 Years of Sunrise”
It’s not very often I happen upon new music that moves me these days. My history of discovering all the good stuff is a rite passed on to my boys several years ago. They’re now responsible for 99% of the new music I get my hands on, and for that I am grateful.
But today, I had the honor introducing “3 Years of Sunrise,” the first full-length album from Canadian musician and DJ, Myagi, to several friends who had not heard his music before. And since this also marks the first time I’ve written the first review of an album on iTunes, I thought I would post it here as well.
Put this on, tune that out and enjoy the ride.
Having heard Myagi’s remix of The Crystal Method’s “High Roller” and several other original productions and remixes, I’ve been anticipating this release with high hopes for some time. I am glad to say that not only does this album not disappoint, it soars. Although you may find a smattering of Fluke, Underworld and Massive Attack among the gems here, this work truly stands on its own.
From the first beat to the last note, Myagi (Andrew Mavor) intricately weaves a layered quilt of ambiance, melody and beat you can’t help but wrap yourself within.
There are some standouts, but this is a collection of songs best listened to as a single work. The vocal-centered track, “How To Test” gets things off to a lively start, but IMHO, best serves as the set up for the mind-bending “Shapeshifter, Pt. 1″ – one of the best tracks on the album. “Heads N Tails” is a downbeat track that starts off feeling a bit like Massive Attack, but quickly evolves beyond the expected and becomes the entrance to the wonderland theme park that is the rest of “3 Years of Sunrise.”
“In Between,” is an eight minute plus roller coaster ride of breaks that will leave you wanting more. And the good news is, that’s exactly what you get through the remaining tracks – a ride that will you smiling and breathless through the aptly titled closer. “I Don’t Want This to End” is a reprise of sorts, and a beautiful way to bring this well-crafted trip to an end.
If you buy 3 Years of Sunrise on iTunes or anywhere else, I hope it makes you happy too!
