Rafael Anton Irisarri

When you think of Seattle, what do you see? No doubt it revolves around Grunge, rain or Frasier... Well prepare to have your cultural preconceptions realigned by the stunning new album 'Daydreaming' from Seattle's Rafael Anton Irisarri, an artist better known under his 'The Sight Below' moniker. Whilst the notion of another record combining modern production with a set of ivories may seem something of a cliché, Rafael Anton Irisarri ensures any such misgivings are dispensed with soon after you hit play - with 'Daydreaming' coaxing a set of emotions so vivid from its stripped palate that you'll have to pinch yourself... Opening through 'Waking Expectations', the listener is greeted by a bloom of synths that spreads like paint in water; enveloping the senses and encouraging the ear to delve ever deeper to uncover the piquant piano. In no way superfluous or tacked on for classical recognition, Irisarri seems to have written this record speficially to showcase the haunting nature of the piano - using the electronically creased production style to further highlight its beauty and poignant impact. Melancholic in that way which avoids a frown, Irisarri easily slips into the company of Deaf Center or Goldmund - bringing a snowfall of accruing elements to bear on a record which welcomes you into its warm and inclusive arms with both grace and genuine style. Theatrical and frosted, 'A Thousand Yard Stare' and 'Wither' glide into your subconscious and refuse to relent - casting out pink-hued soundscapes and filigree melodies that allow the piano to shimmer and evolve. Rich and creamy, 'Lumberton' (a real highlight) nods to Lynch with its stripped canvas, whilst the eroded grace and gaseous closing of 'A Glimpse' is a fitting epilogue to a stunning tale. Very beautiful indeed.