Giuseppe Ielasi Gesine CD - Import

Comparisons to Dean Roberts and Loren Mazzacane Connors are almost inevitable, but Giuseppe Ielasi's Gesine is both more melodious and soothing than the regular output of the aforementioned two. The music spread across the six untitled tracks consists mostly of acoustic guitar, processed electric guitar (in the form of sustained wails and textures), quiet electronic textures (the likes of surface noise and amplification buzzes) and very delicate percussion. A seasoned improviser in electro-acoustic contexts, Ielasi always had a strong introspective side, but he has rarely explored the song format -- and that is what Gesine is about: instrumental songs, minutely crafted. Call it post-rock, post-folk, or whatever fits the bill today, this album draws on the inherent gentleness of acoustic strings, the potential of electronics to subtly open up the doors of perception, and the power of creativity not to obfuscate but to beautify. Most of the music here is readily accessible and enjoyable on first listen. Unwarned listeners may find the second and fourth tracks unexpectedly simple, but should be quickly won over. The first and fifth tracks feature more abstract material -- the fifth one is an eerie guitar drone, insubstantial but yearning -- that brings contrasts to the simple melodies and unusual arrangements found in the other ones. Gesine is short at 31 minutes, but it offers a satisfying listen, with subdued virtuosity and compositional flair. Highly recommended to fans of quiet experimental music and some of Ielasi's best work. ~ François Couture

Audio Mixer: Giuseppe Ielasi.

Recording information: 02/2004-09/2004.