Ravenstine, Allen: Rue Du Poisson Noir

Here is the last in the four-album series The Tyranny of Fiction titled Rue Du Poisson Noir by ex-Peru Ubu synthesist Allen Ravenstine. Like the other three albums, Ravenstine continues his unusual approach to soundscape design, utilizing samples and synthesizers, as well as trumpet, flute, and saxophone. It is all very eclectic and really quite heady.

The first track “Doff Downie Woot� begins with an oriental melody on percussion, followed by trumpet, sounding like it is coming out of the ether. The narrative vocals of Windsor King add an element of eclecticism, but you also get synth strings and bizarre electronics and effects. A kind of ambient head trip if you like. Shrieking sounds and darkly hued piano give “Open Season� a rather unsettled feeling. Huge bursts of jarring percussion and waves of darkness, almost menacing, eventually gives way to a crystalline synth line, completely taking a left turn. The song ends with footsteps and a snarling beast which begs the question, open season on who, or what? “The Rain on Mars� is a slowly crawling piece with wind and rain effects and on “Music Box�, fragmented guitar threads through the soundscape. The aura of creepiness continues with the ominous “Rear Window� where moody synths meander through strange percussion sounds and a deep sinuous bass, and “Brothers Grimm� where jarring synths have an almost gothic approach. It is certainly the most dramatic tune here.

It all makes for a very different listening experience, but if you have an open mind, the possibilities Ravenstine creates are quite impressive indeed.

Track Listing:
1. Doff Downie Woot (3:29)
2. Open Season (5:00)
3. The Rain on Mars (5:45)
4. Music Box (3:40)
5. Brothers Grimm (2:38)
6. Rear Window (2:57)
7. Time & Tide (2:24)
8. Rue du Poisson Noir (6:37)
9. Interlude (1:03)
10. Wireless (4:42)
11. Bossa Nova (4:05)

Added: March 18th 2023
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Artist @ Bandcamp
Hits: 358
Language: english

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