Raymond Scott Woolson

Item: Legendarium
Author: Aaron C. Anderson

Legendarium

(2004)

Reviewed by Aaron C. Anderson

Discogs Bandcamp

Label independentThe Phantom Tollbooth2004

ambient experimental new age progressive rock

From the moment I put this album into my stereo until the last note was played I knew that I had just experienced something very, very special. Quite simply this album is amazing. It's one of those albums that defy classification. Woolson uses a multitude of instruments throughout; instruments such as guitars, keyboards, flutes and drums. I would define this music as poetry without the words. Some might call it mood music, ambient or something else but such classifications would betray the emotion that is contained in this music. If you like music that you can write your own story to Legendarium is for you. There are no lyrics at all, you create your own by absorbing this stunning music and composing your own journey, mood or reflection that the music brings to mind.

"Falling into the Waiting Fields" is a delicately glorious song. This song is like the other nine songs on the disc the music allows the listener to have their own unique experience of feelings that these melodies will conjure up. Longing for the Creator and desiring to bask in His radiant Light are some of the emotions that are sure to be aroused upon hearing this album. Raymond is an absolute dynamo with a keyboard and the keyboard bass line in this song is no exception, it is simply breathtaking. "How Her Westering Sun Turned These Clouds Into Gold" is reminiscent of the opening to U2's "Where The Streets Have No Name" not that Raymond is imitating it's just that a timeless song sometimes reminds you of another timeless song. All the songs are highlights, no filler at all here. Too bad that only a small audience will be exposed to this exquisite composition.

For those wondering exactly what the music on this album sounds like think Phil Keaggy (The Wheat and the Wind) with a few beefed up guitars here and there. If you are a fan of good instrumental rock music this is definitely the CD for you and check this out the entire album is free. All you have to do is go to http://www.geocities.com/guitarnoise65/ and request a copy. Once you get your copy I'm sure you'll put it in your stereo place it on repeat and let these sweet soothing sounds wash over your soul.

5 tocks