ROBERT FRIPP & JEFFREY FAYMAN: A TEMPLE IN THE CLOUDS

The four offerings here are an ascent from Earth to the Heavens; consistent with Fripp's interests in exploring soundscapes. Entirely "tape-loops", synthesizers, and Fripper-tronics; there is no prominent guitar work to be found. One finds only slowly evolving themes with subtle fade in and outs of muted or treated sounds. Fripp's collaboration with Jeffrey Fayman (also known for his work with Steve Roach) is a fruitful one. For fans of this genre I would rate it three and a half stars; overall three stars.

"The Pillars of Hercules" creates the impression of sea shore & surf, choral chanting, with a consistent base note amplitude modulation throughout. "The Sky Below" has a subtle chorus singing individual notes. Each instrument voice figures more prominently and distinctly than in the first track. The sound of the surf lapping against the shore slowly fades. For "A Temple in the Clouds" there are numerous impressions of the sounds of a Tibetan monastery; sounds reminiscent of low-pitched horns and chanting monks, muted hints at wind chimes, cymbals, and gongs. "The Stars Below" consists of synthesized strings. The final ascent is accompanied by more choral voices and symphonic background.