We told you the new Simonne Draper album was coming, and now, it’s finally here (and well worth the wait) – Silence of Eclipse, released through Bongo Boy Records, is now available for purchasing, streaming, and as a beguiling, bewitching aid to endless dancing and frolicking. Simonne Draper’s classical acoustic guitar wizardry, on a full-length release, is, in a word, astonishing. Ready to traverse fantastical landscapes born from incomparable finger dancing, grandiose turmoil, and spectacular, unhindered hope? Let’s listen, and discuss the highlights.
Let me stop you right there. Simonne Draper, a member of the renowned Czech Composers Society, is classically trained in Spanish guitar, having studied with legendary classical guitar composer Milan Tesař at the Conservatoire in Prague. And beyond her obviously adroit playing, her composing chops are equally incomparable. She’s garnered worldwide recognition, and earned every incredibly positive and objectively accurate review. Now….let’s have a listen.
The album begins with “Eclipse,” which is perhaps a foreshadowing of temporary darkness cast upon the album as a whole. Featured on a recent episode of Bongo Boy TV, “Eclipse” begins with a repeated arpeggio and streaking, sustained strings. And then, as described during the aforementioned episode, I still get that sense of… “galloping,” of moving forward at a gallant, tenacious, but often obstructed pace. And when it ends, it’s on a darker, uneasy chord. The hero is certainly bold, as the music makes him so, but the journey, and the trials, are just beginning.
I had quite a bit to say regarding “Accordiana,” so let’s hit “Fantasia for My Love” – it begins with gorgeous harmonics before its lamenting and leading guitar melody. Here, the strings, like they often do, construct a floating, supportive, and slowly adjusting accompaniment; they instill an almost magical quality while roaming quietly after Simonne’s exacting and navigating guitar. And after a few final guitar notes, a rush of strings signals the end. An absolutely gorgeous track