Various Artists - miniatures 2
2000/ 67:29 Minutes / 60 Tracks / Studio
Release Date: February 8, 2000 - Cherry Red Records
Produced by: Morgan Fisher
Website: www.morgan-fisher.com

Reviewed by Matt Rowe on July 24, 2002

"miniatures 2" is a unique and interesting blend of experimental music in many forms. Edited and assembled by Morgan Fisher, this collection of miniaturized tunes provide the listener with a very wide array of pieces that would not have found its way on any other collection. The songs run the gamut of spoken pieces, musical selections, popular artists and unknown artists, all merged in such an artful way so as to present to the listener not only a sampler of unparalled uniqueness but also a stylish recording.

The conceptualization of miniatures 2 is not a new one. Morgan Fisher had explored this realm before having created one earlier CD, "miniatures", but, with this recording, extends the ideas given forth to incorporate more small masterpieces that total, in length, for the sake of this production, one minute.

The artists on this collection range from rock notables performing eclectic nuggets interspered with Japanese artists, composers of classical nature, and jazz stylings. All in all, a very mature mix of styles.

This disc combines the works of John Paul Jones (Led Zeppelin), Meredith Monk, Gavin Bryars, Robert Fripp, Ottmar Liebert and others. The mixing of styles range from techno, rock, jazz, ambience, vocal musings and chatterings creating an oddly brooding but welcome stew. I'm thankful to have heard it.

The booklet is a beautifully designed 24 page montage of biographies and photos. The care put into this release should inspire any artist to go to the length that Fisher has gone to optimize an already spacious album.

This disc is not for everyone. People searching for MTH outtakes will have to look elsewhere. While there is an occasional rock tune by a known artist, it isn't a rock album per se. It is a highly diversified hybrid of talent that very well may not be seen as it is put together here again unless, of course, Morgan Fisher elects to triangulate his concepts. Bring it home, so to speak.

This disc becomes a landmark in an ever changing vista of ideas that anoint our times with it's own brand of uniqueness. We can hope that Morgan replicates the ideas that make up this release and gifts the world of music, as it has evolved, with yet another miniature.

Search Tour Database by: Artist City Venue