Description
#alessandranovaga #vinyl #vinylrecords
Alessandra Novaga, the renowned guitarist and composer, takes us on a mesmerizing journey through the cinematic landscapes of Andrej Tarkovsky with her latest album, where she reimagines the iconic Bach compositions featured in classics like ‘Solaris’, ‘The Mirror’, and ‘The Sacrifice’. The album titled “The Artistic Image is Always a Miracle” is a beautifully crafted homage to Tarkovsky’s masterful blend of imagery and sound. Novaga, who is known for her evocative musical explorations, such as her interpretations of Rainer Werner Fassbinder’s works in ‘Fassbinder Wunderkammer’ and Derek Jarman’s legacy in ‘I Should Have Been a Gardener’, delves deeply into the philosophy of the great director as detailed in his seminal book ‘Sculpting in Time’. This fresh take on Tarkovsky’s art transcends mere cover versions, transforming Bach’s pieces into lush soundscapes that interweave electric guitar with voice and electronics.
Right from the first track, you’re enveloped in an atmospheric tribute as Novaga bends the strings of her electric guitar to create a haunting rendition of ‘Erbarme dich, Mein Gott’ from ‘The Sacrifice’. Each strum reflects Tarkovsky’s profound narratives, carrying you through a spiritual reflection that’s at once familiar and wholly new. Throughout the album, Novaga ingeniously uses a mix of operatic vocals, found sound, and microtonal guitar work to give life to the poetic works, including an adaptation of a poem by Tarkovsky’s father, Arsenij. Her creative process results in a compelling interplay of sound that not only resonates with Tarkovsky aficionados but also beckons newcomers into the fold of the director’s timeless appeal.
Closing off with an unforgettable 11-minute movement, Novaga presents the most intimate Tarkovsky dedication. Infused with fragile vocals that convey a vivid palette of emotion, the track escalates with the addition of strings and subtle guitar, echoing the profoundness of both the ‘Solaris’ theme and the ethereal scores of Nikos Mamangakis. Novaga’s album stands out as a poignant, heart-stirring masterpiece, intertwining the gravity of Gavin Bryars’ works and the candid, resonant ambiance akin to later John Fahey pieces. If you’re seeking a sonic experience that honors cinematic history while creating its own artful narrative, the ambient adventures of this album are a must-listen.
