5.07.2008


ancient hand

by jim roberts


this is a rhythm based work with many different types of colors and timbres. melody by seven different vocalists. times range from four to 7 minutes. most tempos are moderate to slow. ancient hand was the first solo recording by percussionist, producer, jim roberts, released in 1998. it is mood-driven music that features experimental use of rhythm instruments such as west african balaphon, banjo uke, djembe, trash snare, conga kit, log drums, strum stick, embira, water gourds, paddle drums, trash bells and big bass tubs. rhythmic and harmonic instruments create poetic mantras for 7 different vocalists, ranging from lofty, cuban inspired "yemaya" to the dark moody "wait for me" sung by horse fly singer, jeff claus. The cd features a number of prominent nashville and ithaca, ny musicians including beth nielsen chapmen, victor wooten, members of the horse flies, the burns sisters, and essra mohawk.