2015 is almost done and dusted but there are still a couple of loose ends to tie up. Here’s a couple of Singapore instrumental albums released this year that you might want to examine a little closer.
SPHAERAS – MOIRAI
Post-rock is a popular genre amongst young Singapore musicians. For that reason, with the sheer number of post-rock bands here, it may sometimes be easy for releases to get somewhat under the radar. Whilst Sphaeras’ debut album is competently put together, it can be difficult to differentiate the band’s music from other Singapore post-rock bands. Nonetheless, for post-rock fans, Moirai is definitely a release to check out.
FORBIDDEN PLANET – FROM THE BEDROOM TO OBLIVION – TWO DECADES OF OBSCURITY
With a title like that, there is either a certain resignation or a tongue firmly in cheek, when it comes to this album. In this case, I would assume the latter is true. This is a guitar-centric instrumental album and guitarists Adam Quek & David Baptista assert themselves through an eclectic sampling of songs. More prog rock than post-rock, this will appeal to fans of Joe Satriani, Steve Vai and John Petrucci.
SARAH LEE – COLOUR DREAMS
Something completely different! Pianist Sarah Lee released an album of original piano instrumentals that would be perfect for late night listening or synched up to your favourite TV drama. Having previously issued a covers album in 2014, Colour Dreams represents her first venture into original recordings & there is little doubt of Sarah’s technical skills though it’s fair to say that some variation in style and arrangement might have spiced things up a little bit.
… still there’s more …