Dwelling Humana
Equilibrium Music EQM003 6th October 2003
By Russell Garwood
Dwelling play neo-classical acoustic music, with Spanish/Portuguese leanings and a heavenly voices, ethereal atmosphere. The guitars of Nicholas Ratcliffe and Nuno Roberto intertwine, playing typically Mediterranean melodies, and showcasing a soothing tone. Their arpeggios act as an effective backing to the violin of Silvia Freitas, whose graceful lines add a flowing quality in the otherwise slightly jerky music. The vocals of Catrina Raposo can play a similar role - tending to rely on fluid transitions and relaxed phrases, they create atmosphere, but can lack the character so prevalent in the playful guitars/violin duelling. They are, however, fitting and well performed, with a solid range and skilled delivery. The bass of Jaime Ferreira emphasises the guitar-work, and fits surprisingly well in an otherwise acoustic sound. There is a notable lack of drums, yet the music doesnt suffer as a result - all rhythm is driven by bass and guitars. Occasional more up-tempo violins introduce a light-hearted carnival feel, balanced in equal measure by a pervasive melancholy - a juxtaposition used to best effect in The Reality That Remains.
An organic and tranquil release, many fans of world and classical music will appreciate Humana. Despite limited instrumentation and texture, Dwelling manage to create nine interesting, varied songs, and I look forward to hearing further developments in their sound.
Equilibrium Music
Equilibrium Music EQM003 6th October 2003
By Russell Garwood
Dwelling play neo-classical acoustic music, with Spanish/Portuguese leanings and a heavenly voices, ethereal atmosphere. The guitars of Nicholas Ratcliffe and Nuno Roberto intertwine, playing typically Mediterranean melodies, and showcasing a soothing tone. Their arpeggios act as an effective backing to the violin of Silvia Freitas, whose graceful lines add a flowing quality in the otherwise slightly jerky music. The vocals of Catrina Raposo can play a similar role - tending to rely on fluid transitions and relaxed phrases, they create atmosphere, but can lack the character so prevalent in the playful guitars/violin duelling. They are, however, fitting and well performed, with a solid range and skilled delivery. The bass of Jaime Ferreira emphasises the guitar-work, and fits surprisingly well in an otherwise acoustic sound. There is a notable lack of drums, yet the music doesnt suffer as a result - all rhythm is driven by bass and guitars. Occasional more up-tempo violins introduce a light-hearted carnival feel, balanced in equal measure by a pervasive melancholy - a juxtaposition used to best effect in The Reality That Remains.
An organic and tranquil release, many fans of world and classical music will appreciate Humana. Despite limited instrumentation and texture, Dwelling manage to create nine interesting, varied songs, and I look forward to hearing further developments in their sound.
Equilibrium Music
