Review

Ryan Francesconi & Mirabai Peart

Road To Palios

Bella Union • 2012

Democracy and philosophy, tragedy and comedy – there’s so much we’ve got to thank the penniless Greeks for. Now, there is one more reason to be thankful: »Road To Palios«. These seven delicate instrumental tracks were inspired by a journey to the Greek islands of Lesbos. However, not only the scales and melodic sequences, but also the titles are directly connected to the region. Palios is an actual place, »Pontic« is derived from the Greek word for ocean, and »Kalamatianos« is a traditional Greek dance. Far away from Sirtaki or Greek wine, the instrumental duets for guitar and violin are still in the spirit of balkan-folk, which is why they are audibly connected to the source of inspiration. Both musicians prove their genius on the strings between Jazz and classic, filled with baroque harmonies: they are virtuoso, sometimes effervescent, but in many parts rather meditative and soothing. »Road To Palios« is instrumental music in its very best meaning, which one really has to engage in (or really should, at least), instead of just having the record run in the background. Unfortunately, the skimpy Greek people will not be the ones getting the credit for this wonderful album.

Buy at HHV