A Closer Listen
As much of Earth continues to endure the longest, hottest heat wave in recorded history, a cool-down release acts as a relief. Eev evokes early evening, as the sunset fades and the temperature begins to drop to a merciful level. The EP is also a reminder of the ongoing talents of two industry giants: the prolific, multi-talented Taylor Deupree and the sublime Nettwerk label.
To add to the appeal, the two early singles, “Eev” and “Something That Looks Like Stars,” are available in both original and Sleep versions. The gentle twinkle of the title track, awash in bells, is enough to relax the spirit all on its own. The offering suggests nurseries, music boxes and stars, a triptych of innocence and wonder. The Sleep Version lifts the static-charged tumble cycle to the foreground, receding at the end, exposing softer bells than in the original.
“Something That Looks Like Stars” is an interesting title in that it makes one wonder about the subject. Possibilities include the evening fireflies, the glint on the moon on a dark lake, or even candlelight. At only 2:16, the original leaves little time for speculation, but the Sleep Version is three times longer and includes pointillist piano, an instrument and form of playing that itself suggests stars, producing a pleasant synesthesia. By the time one intuits intimations of strings, sleep may already have been found. To those experiencing this blessed relief, the sonic crackle, suggesting a small evening fire, may seem like a half-remembered dream.
“Moonless” continues in this vein. The lack of a visible moon opens the eyes to other sights, and here to other sounds: gentle woodland creatures who venture out to forage and mate. Deupree’s guitar is their romantic atmosphere. One can hear them, if not responding, then at least chiming in. As one might expect from the title, “Burnt Island” is more abraded, with soft electronic edges, like the pinging of a surface as it cools. In a summer that has seen the desiccation of both cactus and coral, the title bears serendipitous relevance. The sun sinks slowly in the west. The crickets begin to rub their legs together. Deupree falls silent, exposing the music of the fields.
As artificial light continues to drench both daytime and evening eyes, the stars seem further away than ever. On this release, Deupree reminds us that they are just as close and bright, beckoning us to wish, to sleep, perchance to dream. (Richard Allen)
Mon Aug 07 00:01:07 GMT 2023