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Album Review: Good Sign
Davol
Cover image of the album Good Sign by Davol
Good Sign
Davol
2010 / GIRA Sound
40 minutes
Review by Kathy Parsons
Good Sign is the sixth release from electronic musician/composer Davol, but it’s a first for me - something I plan to rectify very soon! Davol combines electronic and acoustic instrumental sounds as well as pop and new age stylings, creating a unique and distinctive musical voice. Listening to Good Sign is as pleasantly intoxicating as lounging in warm sunshine with a wispy breeze blowing through your hair. That doesn’t mean the music doesn’t have any muscle or complexity - the rhythms are prominent, but the pace is leisurely, creating a feel-good mood and atmosphere. Davol’s music is the perfect antidote to the bad news we are being bombarded with every day. Life is, indeed, good, and Davol’s music is a wonderful reminder. The production quality is also a cut above with sounds that are clean, full, and precise yet warm and inviting. My one-word summation of Good Sign is “Wow!” with both thumbs up and a big smile on my face!

Good Sign begins with “Scarborough Days,” a smooth and easy-going piece that catches your attention and then invites you to ease into a happy daydream. The title track envelops you in warm sounds and suggests the feeling of floating on a cloud, just drifting along and enjoying every moment. “Going There” picks up the pace a little bit, layering guitar sounds with a catchy rhythm, keyboard melody, and atmospheric sounds. “Nautikos” is a favorite. Organ, electric piano, guitars, and ambient electronic sounds suggest the motion, mystery, and majesty of the ocean as light dances lightly on the waves. “Truth 2010” is a remix from an online video project and EP, and is available for the first time on CD here. It is the most energetic and danceable track on the CD, conveying an adventurous, freewheeling spirit and a strong sense of fun. I really love this one! “Goodnight” begins as a duet for guitar and piano, introducing the beautiful melody and setting a gentle mood. Layers of other instruments are added, but the piece remains a sweet and soothing lullaby. Simply lovely!

If you are new to Davol’s music, as I was, be sure to check it out! I’m sure longtime fans will also be more than pleased with this excellent CD. Samples are available at www.davolmusic.com. CDs and downloads are available from Amazon, iTunes, and CD Baby. Highly recommended!
June 1, 2010
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Kathy's Favorites: 2010