review
Press Play, Record
Review of original Important Records CD version of 'Basilica'
Please note 'Basilica Origins (Deluxe) does not include the remixes referenced here
British instrumental trio Rameses III has created a new approach to the 'live album' thing.
Their newest release, Basilica, is a two-CD affair, and it's a very satisfying, unique release.
The first disc, Basilica, is four remixes and reinterpretations of live recordings from a
Rameses III performance in May 2006. The second disc is similar to Honey Rose, and is five
songs entitled "Origins," all of which are compiled from live performances over the past two
years. Listening to the songs, it's not necessarily clear where Rameses III begins and the
remixer ends, but that's not the point; in this case, the 'remixer' becomes 'collaborator'
in expanding Rameses III's sound, but these folk don't really change anything. So, well, the
concept is interesting, but on listen, it's really hard to distinguish or appreciate. But
that's a moot point; the two discs contain some utterly beautiful, quiet, and pensive
instrumental compositions. I'm personally fond of our fave Gregg Kowalsky's "Rose Blood"
remix--a wonderful fifteen minute epic of gentle proportions--but I like the rest of the
record as well.
Joseph Kyle
Saturday 29 March 2008