Friday, June 26, 2009

Angklung Balaganjur "Adi Merdangga" (Maharani/Rick's Records)



Here's a slightly manic recording of a Balinese angklung balaganjur hybrid style. I always feel a little wobbly after a few minutes of listening to this one. I think it's the sulings. Your mileage may vary. Nice deluxe fold out cassette packaging from the Maharani/Rick's Records label.

Saturday, June 20, 2009

Thai Classical Music for Monastic Rituals (T.20)



A very cool cassette of instrumental piphat music. Well recorded, spacious, and trance inducing. Enjoy!

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Gong Lelambatan STSI (B.609)


Masterful performances by STSI throughout both sides of this great cassette. Their take on the venerable Tabuh Kutus Pelayon stands out; with classic telescoping lelambatan structure, evolving towards a gong-cycle sublime, and the interlocked gamelan super-focus required to articulate it all. The B side has some unusual choral accompaniment that hovers wonderfully amongst the shimmering metallic pulsations. Beautiful music.

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Kreasi Baru Beleganjur, Kapal - Badung (B.833)



Hard hitting and bruising Beleganjur performance courtesy of Sekehe Gong Puspa Werdi. Heavy in form, but fluid and torrential in execution, these four intense pieces capture a propulsive energy, full of much fervor. Great stuff!