Charles Laurel – Cypher (1992)

Cassette 0030

• From Specific Ocean Music

NOTES:

This music was composed and recorded through much of 1991 and early 1992. The primary sound source is a Korg M3R, but there is an acoustic 12-string in Old Rope Swing and a bamboo flue in Before the Journey. The M3R was tuned to the flute’s odd scale for the later. Margaret Spilker plays on Waterlily and tiny Epic Movie. Margaret’s musical advice and ears were invaluable throughout.

REVIEW:

A tape of music composed and recorded through much of 1991 and early 1992, employing a Korg M3R as the primary sound source. Laurel’s work here contains a little Classical, a little Pop Rock, a little New Age and a little World Music. Each of the pieces here are distinct, employing a good range of timbres. The music on Cypher does tend to sound “composed” on a MIDI system, which is a drawback for me. “Old Rope Swing” brings in an acoustic 12-string guitar which had me wishing for more such appearances in order to avoid “sequencer-itis.” Those who appreciate an artist’s painstaking attention to compositional details, along with an above average dose of musical complexity, will enjoy Cypher. –Reviewed by Bryan Baker 6/30/1992.

Released on cassette.

CONTACT: unknown