Audiopile Review: Newest release from Misha Panfilov’s Miraaž Records, the first non-Panfilov release for the label, which comes courtesy of a fellow Estonian, the keyboardist and pianist Volodja Brodsky. Though the name might not jump out at you instantly, Brodsky’s been a mainstay in the Panfilov extended universe for for the past decade, working in his many orchestras and combos, not to mention various other psych, funk and electronic outfits that run in the same circles. Some of you may also recall his solo release and debut proper from last year, Whispering Ln., unleashing a set of analogue synths for an outward-gazing cosmic journey that revealed not only his prowess with the instrument but also his curious nature. Made up of a simplistic set of solo piano and vibraphone works, Raindrops can perhaps be viewed as the acoustic inverse of Whispering Ln., an inward-exploration of the microcosms awaiting within the well-worn instruments. Sure, on paper this sounds miles away from what we’ve come to expect from Panfilov HQ, but Brodsky circles a similar spacey melancholia that should be recognizable to anyone who already appreciates Panfilov’s emotionally resonant albums like The Sea Will Out Live Us or the uplifting spiritual jazz of his Septet recordings, the latter of which Brodsky is a vital member. Cutting right to a slow-beating core with his stripped down approach, Brodsky lightly layers up cyclical runs or wandering sentimentality on the piano, winding through the sound of his celestial vibraphone, every note hanging in the air with a ringing resonance that drops you right into the centre of the cozy-feeling room where it was recorded. He does so much with so little, and for those open to it, this is gonna hit.

***

This is the second album by an Estonian composer and pianist, Volodja Brodsky, showcasing his original cosmic compositions performed on piano and vibraphone.

Limited edition of 500 copies on 180g vinyl. Comes with a download code and an exquisite insert card by Savva Terentyev featuring the musical transcription of the title track.