Like a good story, music can transport you. As J.R.R. Tolkien masterfully built worlds in his epic novels including “The Lord of the Rings,” Paul Simon repeatedly set entire scenes with single lyrical lines on “Graceland.” But there’s something to be said about an artist that can paint a picture with rich textures of sound, and Ambre Ciel’s song “eau miroir” does that remarkably well.
The single “eau miroir” is among the tracks on Montréal-based Ambre Ciel’s debut album, “still, there is the sea.” A listener would be hard-pressed to see any sign of rookie jitters on this song, though – the work is radiantly composed, lushly orchestrated, and stunningly performed. As the title suggests, the aquatic feel of the track suggests setting out on a maritime voyage, and the ebbs and flows of the instrumentation and emotive vocals evoke the wonder and mystery, but also whimsy.
A simple arpeggiated piano progression leads off the song and serves as the canvas on which orchestral brilliance is painted. The dreamy vibraphone plays a key role in the immersive feel of the song, and the dynamic builds from the strings section around the one-third and two-thirds points of the song crescendo, then taper away, allowing the listener to take a breath before the piano progression re-emerges. Ciel’s lyrical stylings ride the waves, seemingly effortlessly. The overall effect is a remarkably enjoyable listening experience.
It’s stunning to consider that this album project is Ambre Ciel’s debut. If the rest of the album is as beautifully made as “eau miroir,” it will prove to be well worth repeated listens.
Photo Credit: Lawrence Farfard
Matt Wheeler is a Lancaster County, PA-based singer, songsmith, stage-banter conversationalist, husband, & special-needs father. And an avid vinyl record collector, a purveyor of random facts, & tour-er of Canada (southern Ontario is a favorite destination). Ever since being introduced to Great Lake Swimmers' music through Pandora in about 2009, he has had an appreciation for Canadian music.
Matt's songs & stories, including his classic literature-based project "Wonder of It All," can be found at www.mattwheeleronline.com.
