Elusion
What Are We, 2021
8/10
The recording moniker of the multi-instrumentalist Christopher J. Vibberts, as Chrystal Für the artist pens songs about loss, acceptance and restored life that are instrumental and soaked in atmospheric and mature melodies.
“Requiem” starts the listen and makes an immediate impression with its soothing, ambient landscape that flows with nods to post-rock and neo-classical ideas, and “I’m Losing You” follows with warm piano alongside scattered samples which eventually fade away so the powerful keys take over.
Closer to the middle, “Nova” enters cosmic territory, where precise sound manipulation seems like it could soundtrack a sci-fi film, while “There Is No Second Chance” moves gently, emotively and with a radiant glow. “I’ll Rise At Dawn Once More” then brings in the Echo Collective for 10+ minutes of haunting yet stirring instrumentation that recruits violin, harp, viola and wind sounds to an innovative version of orchestral song craft.
Residing near the end, “Pass The Torch” then turns minimalism into a refined art form in Vibberts’ inimitable vision, and “Other Side Of The Mirror” exits the listen with precise piano that’s as hypnotic as it is cathartic in its sublime execution.
It shouldn’t be surprising that Vibberts has a lengthy and esteemed career soundtracking film, and he takes that experience with him on the droning beauty, cautious texturing and post-classical spirit of this fascinating record.
Travels well with: Orions Belte- Villa Amorini- Echo Collective- The See Within