CARRYING THE BAG OF HEARTS, INTERPRETING THE BIRTH OF STARS VOL. III (E)

Janet Robbins belongs to the category of intriguing musicians you can’t put a definitive label on. Influenced by a wide range of musicians like Kate Bush and Peter Gabriel - just to name a few - and undoubtedly her father Marty Robbins. He probably has stimulated her to pick up a guitar. Robbins creates a musical style ranging from ambient to minimal music and from new age to slightly symphonic. With electronically created rhythm patterns, synthesizers, guitar and grand piano she presents her third offering in her series of exploring outer space with the unpronounceable title Carrying The Bag Of Hearts, Interpreting The Birth Of Stars, vol III. Dark and slow rhythm patterns open Nibiru's Crossing. Orchestral sounds are added, then some spacey effects and a guitar sample. Atmospheric bass sounds join in and melodies played by strings, cello samples and synths as well. Mystically Janet Robbins continues to weave this carpet of strange sounds and crystal clear sequences with again the ‘cello’ playing the lead. The last part of this track is somewhat psychedelic-progressive and reminds me of works by Kevin Moore (Chroma Key). Ascension opens with a sort of Morse code, followed by some distant chords, then a piece of very accessible piano music. The next part consists of groovy rather slow rhythms and deep, warm bass synthesizer sounds, together with smooth layers of orchestrations and organ. The few leads are performed by a weird kind of worn down piano sound and oboe samples; then the music fades away real gently with a few tones of the grand piano. Both the rhythm and the accompaniment, as well as the simple but catchy melody is performed on the electric guitar; later distant orchestral chords by synths are added. The melody reminds me a little bit of some of the tones in Peruvian Skies by John Petrucci (Dream Theater). The song ends with electronically created drums-like percussion. The final track is called The Train To Rhinecliff. It starts off with spacey sounds, then a sequence is added and dark but beautiful bass sounds. A nicely created somewhat jazzy rhythm is supporting parts of this track while the chords and melodies on both synthesizers and clarinet sample provide the atmospheric ambient music. The finale consists of mainly chords and floating sounds.

Since Robbins had a load of material, she decided to make a series of EP’s or mini-CD’s and thus for current standards, especially in electronic music, the length of just over 32 minutes is fairly minimal. On the other hand you tend to listen again and again and trying to discover all those tiny details hidden in her music. This is not an album for anyone, but if you’re willing to explore outer space on your own and still feel the need of some guidance, Janet Robbins may be able to help you perfectly!