I stumbled upon The Physics of Meaning purely by accident. I was going to see Lemming Malloy perform, and had no idea that I was about to see not just one, but two excellent bands. (Actually, three, counting the Oyster Destroyers with their old sea chanteys in between bands.)   It has taken me a very long time to review “Snake Charmer and Destiny at the Stroke of Midnight”. Their music is so rich and complex that it defies categorization. I have never felt comfortable comparing bands, but as Donna of Ego Likeness pointed out to me recently, sometimes that is the best way to live readers a reference point for the music.

Describing The Physics of Meaning is not easy. There is such a diversity here that any comparison is difficult. But for the sake of reference, imagine that the great age of Prog Rock happened thirty years later. Imagine Yes without the Minimoog (well, OK, then it wouldn’t be Yes…but humor me), add violin, oboe, harps,other instruments, and a wide range of musical influences.  I am very big fan of the violin, so I was pleased to see that the violin is featured prominently in some of the tracks here. The production is superb, and headphones are recommended for the full experience.

“In Dreams, We Discover Ourselves, Broke and Yearning” is a simply exquisite violin solo. Violin aficionado that I am, I would not be displeased is the rest of the album were like this. “Destiny Reveals an Unbelievable Truth” is one of my favorites. The song is quite martial, with the steady, almost military percussion and dramatic vocals with an interesting distortion effect early in the song. “Wake up…and make your dreams come true”. Wonderful violin, parts which have a vaguely Middle Eastern sound, and a fabulous solo midway through the song. The transition to the next song is so sudden that at first listen, it seems like a prologue. “No More Sleeping in the Shadows” is a bit faster, starting with choppy guitar. There are fine vocal harmonies, , and a touch of heavy 60’s guitar in the middle, and symphonic sounding strings. The song ends with a descending violin sequence. ”Like White Blood Filling a Black Heart” is a dark sort of love song, starting with an edgy electronic drone, and cool percussion. “Love comes quickly like the moon crashing to the earth” to ‘Love goes quickly like a shadow in the night”. Very introspective lyrics, with Daniel Hart sounding like the great vocalists of the 60’s/70’s. “Around the bend” is a delightful song with a Victorian air. This would be a great song for a Steampunk playlist. “Why Can’t We Fall in Love Forever” has a bluesy start, then launches into a galloping accolade to love. Good harmonies. The vocals and arrangements remind me a bit of Freddie Mercury on “A Night at the Opera”. The song rushes headlong to a righteous finish. “We Were Made for this World” continues down the same path. A resounding classical violin solo finishes up the song. “Song for a Snake Charmer” shifts gears into a more rock and roll mood. Great guitar is a highlight of this piece, with a nearly militant chorus. “Sing your favorite song at the top of your lungs to make you strong”. “Song for a Wishing Well (Not Everything is Possible)” manages to be energetic and somewhat bitter at the same time. Aeroplanes and Hurricanes” starts with great Swing percussion which is the backbone of the soung. Strings and subtle harmonies accentuate the Retro feel, with even a touch of Latin. A strong chorus and strings brings the song to a finale. A tolling bell opens “Snake Charmer and destiny at the Stroke of Midnight”, a very complex song which is in turn wistful, eerie, and heavy. The heavy part momentarily brings Pink Floyd to mind.   “In Dreams We Return to Ourselves, Empty and Honest” is another fantastic violin piece. It has an Eastern European flavor, enhanced with backing instrumentation that rises to a majestic peak, then we are carried to a poignant close with strains of Hart’s violin.

“Snake Charmer and destiny at the Stroke of Midnight” has a depth and complexity that is truly magnificent.  There is a definite sense of continuity to the entire album.    Embark on a  musical odyssey that, whether leading to the familiar or the unexpected,  will definitely require a return trip.  I liken  “Snake Charmer…” to my favorite ale, Guinness. At first it may be a bit daunting, but then it quickly becomes addictive.   I look forward to seeing The Physics of Meaning in concert once more. For even more songs, check out their Myspace page.

http://www.myspace.com/thephysicsofmeaning

http://www.thephysicsofmeaning.com/