journal

The review is in French which you can read over at the Music in Belgium website. I've attempted a translation with a few different online tools, hopefully this is close.

His first album "Abstract Expression" was released in 2007. At the end of that year, Dave Kulju turned to his old typewriter, sorry ... of course his guitar and started writing this new album. The centerpiece is based on two poems of Amanda Joy dealing with dreams and the world around us. While anchored in the continuity, the second disc benefits from cleaner production and a better dynamic. The Jazz-Rock Fusion is set aside for a bit more diversity.

Again, Dave Kulju has done almost everything himself except the drums performed by the faithful Frank Basile. Note also the presence of violinist Ian Cameron who appeared on the first album. Finally, a novelty, Dave turned to a singer, Annie Oya, so this album is only half instrumental.

"Skating is Europa" ventures into space rock with a hypnotic rhythm, patches of keyboards and post rock guitar tones. The inspiration came from a strange message on his voicemail and 2010 book by Arthur C. Clark. "Know Again" is rooted in a Greek tragedy. Guitar and keyboards share the spotlight.

The showpiece is called "A Poet's Talespin". Nearly half an hour (or more than half of the CD!) with singer Annie Oya. That brings a new direction for Kulju's music. A classical piano provides the introduction. In part 2, the singer comes up with a soft voice, almost whispering, and takes more power over time, with a bit of a Maggie Reilly sound. A trio of acoustic guitar, bass and drums take over in part 3. Keyboards give the song shine and mystery. Then, strings introduce the impressive fourth act before giving way to vocals and piano. Finally, the play ends smoothly, very airy, with a floydian guitar solo.

Next follows "Get the Hell Off My Lawn" where the guitar takes the strong upper hand, more in the style of the first track. But several breaks provide a good breather. "Counted the Stars" is the brief finale.

It is not hard to see this new album by Dave Kulju is more varied. His premiere CD, completely instrumental, had perhaps a few tedious passages. This is not the case here. The pleasure of listening is tenfold.