Fernwood - 2009 - Sangita
(50:22; Fernwood)
In 2009 Gayle and Todd returned with their second album, “all music played by hand, on instruments made out of wood” – at least here I don’t have to go looking up what certain instruments are which I have not previously come across. While last time their palette was mostly European, this album finds them stretching more to the East, and also bringing in some American influences to make this much more of a world album. The album title is a reference to the Sangita-Ratnakarna, an 800 year old book by music theorist Sharngadeva which covers the many different styles of music which is performed in India. Although Gayle and Todd have not been massively influenced by Indian styles (although I am sure I can hear a sitar in there, they have blended together music from different ethnic areas using instruments quite unfamiliar to the Western ear to again create something quite beautiful.
I have always enjoyed the pursuit of music outside the mainstream, due not only for the thrill of the hunt but also for the beauty I often discover which has been ignored, misunderstood or cast aside by the many, and yet again I have been richly rewarded as while this album has now been out for 15 years, and it is the first time I have come across it, I am now enriched by having it in my life. They are mixing together not only instruments but cultures to create something which is both firmly rooted yet has none, as musical threads are brought together to create something very special indeed. I can certainly see why Gayle thinks his Fernwood releases are the best things he has ever done (and he has been involved in more than 130 albums and is currently in 7 bands). This is music to get lost inside and hope one never finds the exit and can stay dwelling here for ever. If you enjoy acoustic music which is never rushed but always has a time and a place for everything then this is for you.
Kev Rowland, November 2024
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