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Sigur RosBa Ba Ti Ki Di Do EMI There must be something bubbling up from the igneous wastes of Iceland that nurtures strange but beautiful music. Sigur Ros's latest work is a stunning example of tonal minimalism. 'Ba Bab Ti Ki Di Do's' rhythmic machinations interleave superbly with whispers of toy pianos, Jack-in-the-boxes, celestes and other more esoteric instruments, including (what well may be a self perpetuated myth) running mice sporting miniature clogs!? Originally commissioned by US choreographer Merce Cunningham's production 'Split Sides' the three lengthy dreamscapes on offer here have a undeniable balletic quality. Percussive elements like struck matches, sand paper and fishing-line ratchets buzz and bristle in the background while white noise and piercing feedback tear away at the ambient twilight. Ba Ba, Ti Ki and Di Do sound like the last seconds before sleep; these are lullabies for adults. This is a sublime understatement from a band that normally draw on bolder colours and richer layers. A Venus flytrap in musical form - seemingly benign, but once inside it closes in on you until there is no way out. So, just as Sigur Ros's leaves start to close the CD player abruptly stops at a mere twenty minutes. Twenty Minutes? It is a great shame that it is so short. I wouldn't be so upset if it wasn't so damn good. 'Ba Ba Ti Ki Di Do' is some of the cleverest instrumental music you will ever lend an ear to. Unfortunately, as it stands, Sigur Ros have recorded a frustratingly addictive teaser. It could have just as easily been a classic for all who enjoy music without convention had it been an acceptable length.  |
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