Matthew Bourne – Candela (for Sascha Heeney) (The Leaf Label)

Aching piano instrumental from the North of England artist ahead of a new album in the summer.

Matthew Bourne has spent the last few years exploring the edges of improv with Moog workouts, audio visual collaborations and Kraftwerk interpretations (sometimes all at the same time).

While those were fascinating, there’s something very satisfying about this return to piano, to territory reminiscient of his wonderful Montauk Variations album from 2012.

Plaintive and spare piano notes gather long contemplative cello drones leading to a surprisingly suspenseful atmosphere.

It’s a thing of beauty and I can’t wait to hear more from the album.

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