Various - The Politics Of Disappearance

  by Laura Branch

published: 21 / 1 / 2002

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Review

Radio Khartoum is undoubtedly one of the few truly innovative record labels of the moment, where the desire to create permeates all levels, and the preservation and perpetuation of this artistic integrity is of the utmost importance. This doesn’t make for dry and overly earnest music however, but for the exciting and unexpected. 'The Politics of Disappearance' is the soundtrack to an imaginary film , the soundtrack to your internal monologue.   Leeds based Cavil sees the singer, in an uninterested manner, explore the concept of losing his history, which I find to be quite a simple yet evocative image – the ultimate detachment, the final stage in the evolution of independence and freedom, if you like. He continues to sing in his richly understated style, of moving through the night – further underlining the concept of disappearance and acts to set the scene perfectly.   Dakota Suite’s cello driven offering deftly conjures up images of desolate landscapes and lonely journeys, reminiscent of a romanticised version of Russia with lots of Doctor Zhivago-esque imagery. 'I Turned Away That You Might Not See' is instrumental throughout and all the better for it – allowing your mind to add your own internal dialogue.  By the fourth track the journey continues with an exotic and mysterious, perhaps Middle Eastern influenced sound, countered by Julien Ribot’s dense, stilted French vocals. An eerie interlude suggests ensuring disorder and chaos. With order restored his deep measured vocals carry the song along with a beautiful imperfection. Christine with 'Ailleurs…' weave a web of sound that gradually builds; enveloping and encompassing you – I really did feel as if the sound filled the room. And finally, an upbeat conclusion to 'The Politics of Disappearance' with Spring whose acoustic offering is complemented by brittle yet smooth female vocals.  And that, after eighteen short minutes, is it. A mysterious and captivating journey which fills the room and your mind with rich enchanting images. Superb.

Track Listing:-

1 The Pierres - Loved
2 Cavil - Here Not There
3 Dakota Suite - I turned Away So that I Might Not S
4 Julien Ribot - Autrepart est un lieu sans
5 Christine - Ailleurs
6 Spring - Love