IF MOUNTAINS COULD SING

A great CD to listen to on a sombre Autumn evening or cold winter storm. Features the classic _The Return Of Per Ulv_ which can also be seen played on the DVD _Live At Stuttgart_. This CD is a combination of his Chasers band playing with a string section, as well as the standard free jazz Terje is kniow for. Really, the only tracks with structure are _The Return Of Per Ulv_, _Private Eye_, _Dancing Without Reindeers_(another Terje classic!) and _Genie_. Some wonderful scorching Fender can be heard on the trancy _It's In The Air_. An almost 4 star album...all depending on your mood. Recommened for a great introduction to Terje Rypdal if you can't find his _Works_ or _Rarum_ compilations.

Terje Rypdal had build a musical world of his own. With jazz fusion, almost rock electric guitar, classic music, free jazz, etc. And he lives in this land - clear, cool, relaxed, and - such far from us all...

"If Mountains Could Sing" is very poetic, lyrical and romantic album, but in Nordic manner: with some cool sentimental tunes, chamber strings, electric rock guitar, ambient space and violin . I believe, that almost every listener could enjoy this music, but to get it in full you must love it.

Usual ECM clear and airy sound, but warmer, with more emotions. Possibly, the reason is very warm violin inclusion. Very tasteful music, relaxed and full of internal energy at the same time.

Stylistically it is a mix of everything: you will easy find there chamber music, jazz rock, free jazz, strings-filled post-rock and even new age elements. But all them are used in very tasteful, minimalistic portions, and never mixed in one chaotic brew. Compositions remind the work of good jeweller, when each ring includes tasteful precious stones and metal work.

Nice, interesting and never boring album. Very recommended.