by Phil Derby - Editor & Publisher Electroambient Space - USA
Bruno Sanfilippo is a new name to me this past couple of years, but he’s been recording for several years, hence the release of Anthology, culled from his past releases, some of which I’ve heard but many which I’ve not.
His gift for picture music is the common thread running through it, his earlier works sounding more like soundtrack music and his later works moving into more ambient realms, though still with a strong sense of imagery.
The early tracks The Nobles come back, The New Kingdom, and Solemnis sound quite orchestral, and truly sound like epic film scores, possibly set in medieval times. Tympani, crashing symbols, pizzicato strings, it’s all there.
Not typical electronic music fare to be sure, but quite well done.
“Miracles” is the first track to more overtly blend acoustic and electronic elements.
The three selections from Suite Patagonia tend to still be dominated by a more orchestral approach, with melancholy strings featuring prominently in the title track.
I prefer the more textural piece Magallanes, with ethnic and tribal shadings that are just right.
Parts III and V of Sanfilippo’s Visualia album are included, with ethereal wordless female vocals enhanced by various musical textures.
The disc concludes with two beautiful tracks from ad libitum, particularly the closer Oniria, with gorgeous atmospherics backing a
haunting piano solo. If you’ve not heard Sanfilippo’s work before, Anthology would be a great place to start.