Sometimes you don’t need hyperbole or over-analysis to sum up an
album. This new album from Seth Swirsky, a 30-plus year veteran of MANY
elements in the music industry, Circles And Squares can be
summed up in one word: exquisite. It’s that simple – considering the
music is so detailed, intricate and complex. Imagine all the best
elements of what you love in pop: Brian Wilson during that period from Pet Sounds to Sunflower; The Beatles from Rubber Soul and Revolver and most of Todd Rundgren from Something/Anything to Hermit Of Mink Hollow,
plus everything by Emmit Rhodes for good measure. I know that’s one
hell of a build-up and you’re probably thinking “no way, no how”. Well,
it fucking is.
Just from the first piano bars of “Shine”, with the most perfect
sound and arrangement – you know where it’s going and it’s only going to
be more glorious; the title track is this wonderful, slightly quirky
meld of Beatles and Beach Boys and the playing through the different
movements of the song is beyond description – and it has to be noted
that Mr. Swirsky played all the parts himself (save for one bass part
and one horn part!) – if this is his McCartney, then roll on!
“Old Letter” is buoyant with its acoustic guitars – say Hollies meets
Raspberries and layered tuanwhich makes the singing even warmer and
personal and “Let’s Get Married” is one of the most charming pieces on
the album with its quiet understatement and deft 12-string Ric riffage
and orchestral arrangement on the instrumental break. “Trying To Keep
It Simple” is (in my mind) that kind of rhythm you found in the ’60’s
with the diminished and open chords of the ’70’s – his mastery of song
structuring is astounding; “Sonic Ferris Wheel” reminds me of XTC – not
surprisingly, the arrangement and wry lyrical content reeks of Andy
Partridge (and that’s said with great admiration); “Table” is the
highlight of side two (even though this is a CD – work with me) –
opening with a shimmering 12-string Ric and kicking it with a classic
acoustic rhythm and worthy of Top Ten status if singles were still the
order of the day and “Abyss” is sad, quiet and has a Zombies-like feel,
tempered by a cello. Heady, heady stuff.
I’ve been very fortunate in that I manage to hear/find so much
incredible music to try and turn others on to after being turned on
myself. But this one – this one is an absolute necessity. And there’s
no point in my attempting to paint fancy word pictures about it. One
listen will tell you all you need to know. Sixteen tracks and something
familiar, beloved and yet different in each one, which makes it even
more special.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED – a must!
(Rob Ross,popdose.com)
Nothing more to say. Like i said earlier in other posts this guy is a complete artist and a gifted musician. A pop genius in my opinion. Enjoy it and
have fun
SB1 Flac part1 & Flac part2 - mp3@320
You can buy the album here
p.s.: I added the Flac files in the 'Watercolor Day' post from some days ago. Reader robgronotte send me the files yesterday. Thanks a lot for your contribution, robgronotte. It's much appreciated!!!



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