Customer Reviews

Chroma

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"Chroma". A word that brings to mind an artist's palette of beautiful colours. In this case, Laurel MacDonald's album "Chroma" is a veritable palette of beautiful music. From the opening track "A Wing and a Prayer", it is obvious MacDonald likes to experiment with traditional verse and folk songs. "Agnus Dei", traditionally from the Catholic mass, stands out in particular. The ancient latin text is set to a hypnotic beat and haunting melody. Laurel MacDonald's voice is the main focus, with her incredible range and flexibility. Her voice is pure and is layered thickly throughout chants and songs. She was not afraid to take risks with this album. From the gorgeous, "unconventional" harmonies, to the introduction of new instrument inventions. For those who need a description of this uncatagorizable music, the closest would be a mix between Dead Can Dance, Jane Siberry, and Mary Jane Lamond. But it is really something to be heard for yourself. This album is essentially a innovative piece of work which mixes ancient and modern styles together to create a piece of musical ecstasy.

MacDonald does remind one of others. Yet her instrument is unique. She seems to be familir with 20th century composers: Schoenberg, Varese, Part, Boulez. Medieval influences increase the complex mix of ingredients in her style and material.