My review of "The Road Eternal" CD by Steve Roach / Erik Wøllo

[Richard Gürtler]

Long awaited second collaboration of two highly respected veteran composers came to its final stage during Erik's visit in Arizona when performing on SoundQuest Fest in October of 2010. I am immediately impressed by the eye-catching 4-panel digipak with absolutely stunning blue colored images (photographs by Erik and Steve). But the visual part of this release is very soon leveled by the sonics as the opening title track "The Road Eternal" unfolds its 21 minutes long trip. Slower magical desert ambience quickly traverses into breathing, rhythmed and melodic parts, this is crystal clear sonic orgasm!!! No questions here, two true masters are at the top of their craft and musicianship merging with highest precision their own distinct trademarking styles. Absolutely exciting and adventurous overture!!! But this spectacular sonic travel continues on "Depart At Sunrise", which can be easily described as "crème de la crème" of melodious soundscaping. Delicately crafted and sculpted textures where hauntingly evocative atmospheres are skillfully balanced with highly attractive smooth, pulsating and energetic passages. To me, both these compositions are the most unique and imaginative pieces of art Steve and Erik did together so far, thank you so much, Maestros!!! Warm and dreamy "The Next Place" sounds quite mechanical and futuristic with always presented vibrant groovy elements, one of the most uplifting compositions on this route. "First Twilight" is more aerial and nostalgic cooling down piece. As night settles down, "Travel By Moonlight" begins, nice mid-tempo rhythmic tribal ride through still hot, but refreshing and darkened desert vistas, mesmerizing and relaxing! "Night Strands" peacefully completes this truly amazing, enterprising and panoramic trip. And don't forget to pack your headphones too! "The Road Eternal" is undoubtedly another highly polished pearl in both artists' discographies, magnificently rich in all aspects, musically, sonically and visually!!! I am a proud owner (and reviewer too) of this masterpiece!!!

Richard Gürtler (Jun 13, 2011, Bratislava, Slovakia)