Pisces Projekt

Posted: Feb 27, 2006
Vol 3 #4, Issue #11 (pg. 79)
Reviewer -- Richard Mackenzie

Opera
PISCES PROJEKT
UNICORN 1 RECORDS
WWW.UNICORN1RECORDS.COM

Opera is a remarkable CD, not just for its outstanding fusion of musical genres but for its tone as well. Leaving behind the inactive music of the past, each track on the CD virtually demands audience involvement and emotion. And the CD's title is a fitting one, "opera" meaning both work of art and an operatic performance.

Each track draws on multiple styles of music, from ethereal, almost magical New Age vocals to Gregorian-style chanting to the intricate rhythms of dance and techno to inspirational hymns. The Pisces Projekt's unique musical sensibility recalls both past and future as their interesting arrangements breathe new life into ancient forms. For instance, "I Am" recalls the work of groups such as Enigma and even Depeche Mode, with vocals soaring out of the dark, driving tempo of piano and percussion. Inspirational lyrics and vocal quality add a dash of popular singers such as Josh Grobin to the mix. And "Battle Song" opens with an ethereal female voice in a simple arrangement that reminds one of medieval ballads.

One factor uniting all of the tracks is their strong sense of theatricality--not bombastic or stagy but vibrant and filled with character. The rollicking rhythm of "Lovers' Waltz" exudes the euphoria of love while "Admonition" stands in sharp contrast with its techno-inspired beat heightening the feeling of judgment conjured up by the powerful warning contained in its lyrics. Ballads, hymns, and lullabies round out the selection on the CD, each with its own singular approach.

Not just another set of songs, Opera is a resplendent sonic experience that will not easily be forgotten. Frankly, I have never heard of anything quite like it, and I look forward to hearing more from these peerless performers in the future.