Aries - Double Reign - COMPACT DISCS [CD]

Aries - Adieu or Die [COMPACT DISCS] date 06/03/2016

2024 . A true symphonic metal cinematic opus, with majestic orchestrations, roaring riffs and an amazing vocal performance. Aries Descendant, an electrifying collaboration forged by the musical synergy of two virtuoso studio musicians, Jonah from the United States and Nicklas from Denmark. Their paths converged when Jonah, a prominent member of the acclaimed band Pyramaze, crossed musical swords with extraordinary singer Nicklas, who was enlisted also as the lead guitarist for a memorable performance. The serendipitous encounter revealed a shared passion for music that transcended boundaries. Step into the world of Aries Descendant, where musical boundaries are shattered, and the convergence of genres takes on a new and awe-inspiring form. Brace yourself for an auditory odyssey that transcends expectations and leaves an indelible mark on the landscape of contemporary music.

Since my first encounter with the Hathor Consort, it has been obvious to me that the sound of the viola da gamba complements the harmonic and melodic style of my compositions wonderfully well and with utter naturalness. The pieces on Aries Point therefore not only combine two musical eras, but also give the sound color of the viola da gamba a central place as a key compositional element. It's unique timbre influences the process of composition and improvisation and resonates in a completely new musical context. It's subtle intensity brings out textures which, in their turn, inspire jazz musicians to adopt new forms of melodic and sonic expression in the course of their improvisations. In jazz, the process of improvisation could also be called 'instant composing'. A central element is the variation of the themes and the interaction between the musicians. In composition too, the repeated variation of patterns - through changes in key, rhythm, note order - creates material that serves to weave the melodies and harmonies of the work. With the Aries Point project, I wish to introduce a wider public to the beauty and diversity of improvisation, that ancestral form which lies at the source of all musical expression. (Bastian Stein)