Customer Reviews

Fourth World

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I had never heard any of Nakai's work before buying this CD, so I came to it with no idea of what to expect. The first word that comes to my mind when I play it is "soothing." That describes the first three tracks without need of another word. With the fourth, soft sweeping strings join Nakai's plaintive flute for a feel best described as "floating" or "drifting." The fifth is sweetly mournful. The sixth brings muted brass into play. In the seventh there are moments both majestic and plaintive. And so it goes. This is quiet, thoughtful music, the kind you might play while reading some favorite old "gentle" book or practising your deep breathing. Although I generally prefer more powerful sounds from my stereo, this one is an enjoyable change of pace, and full of Native mysticism.

This is an engaging and unusual integration of Nakai's flute-playing talent with an orchestral accompaniment, creating a romantic, sweeping, and contemplative score that sounds like a motion picture soundtrack in many instances. Nakai's command of the flute never wavers, but sometimes competes, rather than synchronizes with the full-bodied strings that interject themselves almost randomly throughout every piece. When the two mediums cooperate the result is moving and lyrical. One can almost visualize scenes of beauty, mourning, and determination that are the embodiment of Native American existence. But in some places, the music meanders between the two forms creating a neutral, unfocused, and occasionally dispassionate mood.

I applaud Nakai's innovation and experimentation, but I think his strongest work with Western classical music forms is still best demonstrated in his collaborations with pianist Peter Kater, such as "Migrations". Oddly enough, Kater's work with Nakai is not mentioned in the liner notes.

Well produced, well composed and played. Perfect for a stressful office that needs calming and perspective. Highly recommended.

This wonderful man and his
music will reach into you
and set you soaring.
I highly recommend any
of his music. What a gift
R. Carlos Nakai is to all.

Strings tie up the wind
to tame the accompaniment
of the lone flute's breadth.

7-22-06 (a musical haiku)

Joy is all to hear.
A journey to the centre of Creation.
Sharing pleasure of the heart.