Beautiful World

Chronique

Patrick O'Hearn is refreshingly difficult to classify. His electronic work leans decidedly toward an ambient sound, but the Latin and Caribbean-style acoustic beats on songs such as "Facing the Sun" imply a strong world element. Meanwhile, Peter Maunu's guitars (particularly on "Magnificent River") bring a rock and jazz edge to the mix. In listening to this album, it is clear that O'Hearn is not looking to place himself within a musical tradition or style; rather he aims to drum up personal, highly dramatic inner experiences. With this album, he shares his impressions of the natural environment. For example, under a glistening, watery surface (represented by a few piano notes), "Magnificent River" reveals a churning, threatening current. On Beautiful World, O'Hearn captures sounds of nature, but also touches on the grandeur and mystery of his own relationship with the wilderness.
© Rovi Staff /TiVo