Frank Denyer - Whispers

Review by Vishnu Narayanan

Whispers, the latest album by Frank Denyer, is a hauntingly beautiful collection of experimental music that showcases the composer's unique approach to sound and composition. From the opening track, "Whispers," which features a delicate interplay of flute, percussion, and voice, to the closing piece, "The Fish That Became the Sun," which builds to a dramatic crescendo of strings and brass, this album is a masterclass in sonic experimentation.

Throughout Whispers, Denyer uses a variety of unconventional techniques to create a wide range of sounds and textures. On "The Fish That Became the Sun," for example, he employs extended techniques like bowing the strings of a cello with a chopstick and using a bass clarinet to create eerie, otherworldly tones. Meanwhile, on "The Song of the Phoenix," he combines the sounds of a gamelan ensemble with his own voice to create a hypnotic, trance-like effect.

Despite the avant-garde nature of the music, there is a sense of coherence and purpose to Whispers. Each track feels like a carefully crafted exploration of a particular theme or idea, and the album as a whole has a clear sense of progression and development. This is music that rewards close listening and careful attention, but it is also music that can be enjoyed on a purely visceral level.

Summary by Vishnu Narayanan

Whispers is a stunning achievement that showcases the talents of one of the most innovative composers working today. Whether you are a fan of experimental music or simply appreciate the beauty of sound, this album is not to be missed.