John Lurie's so-called "non-jazz" approach is in full flower on this fascinating record. The ever-growing (nine-piece at this point) band builds layers of rhythm and melody with unique effect throughout. On "The Birds Near Her House," a serpentine melodic line weaves through a steady rhythmic bed, building to a frenetic climax. "Scary Children" is a foreboding dirge that still manages to exude true humor. Perhaps that is the most significant aspect of this music: it has real character and life. It doesn't just groove – it starts a conversation.
Joseph Celli's Music Eyes Video Ears is a collection of five works written to accompany multi-channel video presentations. 36 Strings (1992) is for the multi-stringed Korean komungo, played here with much expression and feeling by Jin Hi Kim. In concert performance, the music accompanies five channels of video. The composition is dedicated to the reconciliation of North and South Korean families. 8 Mallets Four Brian (1986) is for marimba, vibraphone, xylophone and orchestra bells and three channels of video.
The Palladian Ensemble's very first recording featured a number of pieces by Nicola Matteis…and for a while they used one of them almost as a signature tune. Now they have drawn more items from his huge ragbag of short pieces for two melody instruments and continuo - Ayres with a whole range of titles from Adagio to Jigg to Aria Burlesca con molto bizzarie and Giga Al Genio Turchescho - and made them the main subject of their latest disc, borrowing its title from Roger North's description of Matteis's playing: flaming as I have seen him, in a good humour he hath held the company by the ears…for more than an hour together.