Record Reviews

SHIMSHON MIEL ~ IT`S ME NOT ON LABEL ~ ISRAEL ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1997 - 2007 Released: 2007 Since the reissue in early 2007 of Shimshon MielFind albums by this artist’s legendary 1977 album Orchard Of The Whispering EmbersFind albums with this title (the rarest Israeli Prog / Psychedelic album originally pressed in 200 copies only), I’ve met him and listened to the music he created in the last 30 years. As Miel moved in time deep into the orthodox Jewish community, his contact with the local music scene was severed. Although Miel never released any albums since his legendary debut, he continues to play and create music all the time, recording it in his own home studio. I encouraged him to release some of this music, as I found it truly fascinating, and finally he succumbed. This album brings out the hidden treasures out in the open, for all of us to enjoy. Using an array of electric guitars and guitar synthesizers (no other instruments are used and everything is played by him) Miel forges some of the most interesting sound vistas I’ve heard in a long time. Although completely indescribable, the music mixes elements of Psychedelics, Jazz, Avant-Garde and Ambient music without any preconceptions or limitations. Completely unpredictable and deeply atmospheric the music flows beautifully keeping the listener in suspense at all times. Expect the unexpected is probably the only description one can propose to any potential listener, hoping that many will decide to plunge into the deep end of musical adventure. Considering the album is dedicated to John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, who had a deep influence on Miel’s approach to guitar playing, it is quite natural that McLaughlin’s followers will find many hooks into this music, but honestly any open-minded listener should have a feast with this stuff. Not easy, but deeply rewarding music, which is timeless and transcends genres and cultures. Wholeheartedly recommended.

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted:

CD-R 1 Recommend To A Friend

SHIMSHON MIEL ~ ORCHARD OF THE WHISPERING EMBERS ARS 001 ~ ISRAEL ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1977 - 2002 Released: 2007 This is undoubtedly the rarest and most esoteric Israeli Prog release ever. Shimshon MielFind albums by this artist recorded and privately released his solo album in 1977 – something that was practically almost never done at that time. The 200 copies of this legendary LP disappeared almost completely from the surface of earth over the years and the few remaining ones are listed among the rarest of Prog collector’s items, reaching astronomical prices on the market. However, the rarity of the album is not the only reason why this piece of music is so unique. Miel’s Avant-Garde and completely unique approach to music making had only a few parallels at the time (artists like ComusFind albums by this artist, Third Ear BandFind albums by this artist and especially Tyrannosaurus RexFind albums by this artist come to mind). A mixture of Folk, Prog, Psychedelics and Mysticism all combined into a strange and fascinating amalgam. Miel plays all the instruments by himself, multi-tracking acoustic and electric guitars, some percussion instruments and vocals, which are harmonized beautifully. Of course at the time of its release the album had no commercial potential whatsoever (not that anything has really changed in that department since) and was ignored completely, only to emerge 30 years later in its full glory. Kudos to Ozi Ezrati (ex-MIOFind albums on this label Records) for digging out and releasing this gem as a brave act of Prog archeology. The bonus tracks include several home recordings made by Miel over the years. An absolute must for all lovers of weird music and Israeli Prog collectors.

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted:

CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend