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11 Feb

Mokoondi by Mice Parade / Adam Pierce

Adam Pierce is the mastermind behind this "eccentric," deep and mysterious work. This disc is like a movie with tons of special effects. He also contributes the majority of instrumental work comprised here, but he is not alone.

Instead of moving in single-track progression, the first and second tracks are actually three in one. Thus, the first title includes the first three tracks or phases, if you will. The second repeats the pattern. This is the kind of organized chaos that is enjoyable. While there’s a lot going on, it’s not loud and boisterous. It’s got that deeply spiritual and peaceful hypnotic style that’s filled with intriguing musical progressions.

The tracks are similar, but different as the mood of each track variates. However, they have the same elements driving each one. The title track is a basic arrangement from start to finish, with lots of movement above and around it. Pierce emphasizes the Chinese harp, or perhaps builds from it. From there, with the support of fellow musicians, he creates an interesting tapestry on the main fabric. In the midst of that, the rhythms are characteristic of those found in the African rainforest, as the promotional material states. There are also some vocal sequences on a few of the tracks that add to the mystique of this work. Quite notably, "Man on the Beach in Brazil," true to its title, as it’s sung a capella by an anonymous Brazilian man that caught their attention.

You may find this is what other musicians have tried to achieve with similar efforts, but miss the mark for some reason. Each track has its own beauty and furthermore, it is a display of genuine artistry.

We could call this world music as it certainly draws from two major influences, but it’s got an ambient quality as well. You should provide your own label. More importantly, it is an educational experience that’s earthy and real. It’s definitely worth further investigation by the listening public. Full of life, indeed.

Additional Info

  • Artist / Group Name: Mice Parade / Adam Pierce
  • CD Title: Mokoondi
  • Genre: World Music
  • Year Released: 2001
  • Record Label: Bubble Core
  • Musicians: Adam Pierce (drums, cheng (Chinese harp), Rhodes, acoustic guitar, SC pro-one synth, vibes, sax, moog synth, and other instruments), Dorothea Tachler (violin, voice), Marc Wolf (guitar), Dylan Cristy, Tyler Pistilli (vibes), Herman Wright (sax), Helen Ann Shea (gourd rattle).
  • Rating: Five Stars
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