EVOLUTION: EXODUS

While there is no argument that Senmuth is indeed a metal-related artist, he is much more than that. The man behind this project refuses to adhere to any single prescribed genre; he instead chooses to also delve into a number of softer styles to give some variety to his vast musical output. 'Evolution: Exodus' is one such album that instead goes for a more mellow approach to Senmuth's brand of exotic music. Clocking in at seventy three minutes, this is certainly one of the longer albums of the discography; it is far from being the most challenging, however. Focusing on long winded and atmospheric passages over conventional structure, 'Evolution' may bore some listeners looking for more eventful music, but for what it is, the album is relatively effective.

Upon first spying the track listing (with all but one song topping the ten minute mark), many listeners (including myself, admittedly) may expect 'Evolution: Exodus' to be a dazzling stream of 'epic' compositions; filled to the brim with dynamic, energy, and a thirst for innovation. While this preconception turned out to be far from the truth, the album does suceed at being a potent ambient journey. Each of the album's six tracks are made long due to repetition of musical ideas. Each composition generally revolves around two or three main ideas, throwing in a refreshing variation once in a while to spark a bit of interest along the way. While this may seem like a recipe for disaster, the music's unchanging vibe makes it a great vessel for relaxation and deep reflection.

While being a 'meditation' album for all intents and purposes, it is surprising how dark the tone can get. While there are certainly lighter moments emotionally, there is an exotic and unsettling feel brought on by many of the ethnic instruments Senmuth uses. Drawing upon a mixture of Middle and Far Eastern instruments on top of typical guitar and percussion, he makes use of these exotic sounds to create music that makes 'Evolution' often as haunting as it is soothing. While it is true that most of the instruments used on Senmuth recordings are synthesized and artificial, Senmuth has polished his use of the software to the point where most 'instruments' in his music sound more or less genuine. 'Evolution: Exodus' is a very well executed piece of music, but the ambient nature of the work will turn off some from enjoying it. However, someone looking for a period of reflection and sonic meditation might find that this album comes in handy.

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