The Art Of Persuasion
Ravello, 2020
9/10
Listen to The Art Of Persuasion
An extremely unique effort spearheaded by flutist Zara Lawler and marimbist Paul J. Fadoul, the pair bring us a theatrical concept album, where jingles and protest songs are both in attendance.
“Jingle Without Words” starts the listen with heavy flute and piccolo as all sorts of percussive instruments complement the setting, and “Hedonistic Treadmill 1” follows with 30 seconds of a commercial like pitch, where a washboard and marimba provide minimal instrumentation- a theme continued 3 more times as brief interludes/ commercials for the duration of the album.
Further on, “Sense & Sensibility” offers spoken word as guitars and flutes soundtrack the story, while “LIARS” unfolds like a scathing diatribe set to brief bouts of flutes in an ominous atmosphere.
Deeper in the listen, “Canyon Serenade” recruits vibraphone to the formula on the instrumental beauty, and the highly melodic “The Sweet Shop” tosses banjos amid the harmonizing singing. “Common Thread” ends the listen with multiple voices in the gospel influenced exit where a banjo, guitar, bass and dulcimer interact with much grace and playfulness.
While the Ravello label is certainly home to plenty of atypical and sublime, creative sounds, The Art Of Persuasion might be their most eclectic to date, where lullabies and social commentary run alongside very detailed musicianship.
Travels well with: Anthony Brandt- Maternity/Ulysses,Home; Figments- Vol. 2