More Celestial Minimalism

Fripp and Eno have finally settled down to do another duo recording: The Equatorial Stars.

Nothing much happens throughout the whole length of the record but that's not entirely unexpected. There's none of the 'genius' melodic spark above rich synth tape loops that Fripp showed on "(no pussyfooting)" and there's little of the pretty melodic refrains on parts of "Evening Star" [and just why are they so enamoured of the sky's twinkling bits?].

Instead there's a lot of the deep reverby bass ambient that Eno can apparently do in his sleep (but which is very difficult to imitate) overlayed with restrained, slightly treated guitar. It's most reminiscent of the 20 minute "Index of Metals" with it's reliance on standard improv techniques of listening and responding to the sounds being created. 'Terebellum' - the last track - could easily be 'Index II' whilst the 1st 5 tracks are similar as well. The other piece - 'Altair' - is the odd one in the batch with a funky Chic-like rhythm guitar style and a Drop era Eno backing once again overlayed with simple guitar notes.

So there's nothing astonishing in this batch but it's one I've played a lot since it arrived. I don't think that's just because I love their earlier releases so much (although that must have something to do with it). It's more that the way they play together sounds so seemlessly right!

On the inner cover is a picture of a small table with 2 cups and 2 plates. Afternoon tea, maybe? 2 old friends spending some 'nice' time together? Whatever, the results are lovely and well worth the years of waiting.

And, lastly, there's nothing as embarrasing as 'Heavy Colours' anywhere to be seen.