Sleepless
Winds Blow Higher
The End/Raven Music, 2001

Geographical isolation has proven itself a profitable component in regards to unique and innovative expression in art of all forms. Within the realm of music, this aspect has particularly shown through in the works of Promethean, Melechesh, Underwater Moon and Orphaned Land, not to mention the creative spirits swirling through the sounds of Monumentum, Moonspell and Sigur Ros. The Israeli act Sleepless benefit from this as well. Winds Blow Higher is a thought provoking, highly unique and compelling work clearly reflecting their association with their environment.

Sleepless is constructed of two seemingly contrasting musical visionaries, namely David Bendayan and Maor Appelmaum. The music on Winds Blow Higher is a thoroughly engaging merging of the dark, brooding elements commonly associated with darkwave/ambient sounds with the experimentalism of "avant-garde" jazz and progressive post-rock works. The music is largely based on a foundation of introspective melancholy, swirling through atmospheres both haunting and ethereal. There is a progressive-minded tendency here evident within the more exploratory passages, a willingness to mentally and emotionally manipulate the listener much in the way Pink Floyd mastered. These elements work quite nicely with the shoegazer-like dreaminess shining through in the more ethereal sections and sleepy/dreary vocals, both male and female. Guitars are distorted rarely, but when they are, as in the title track and "Solitude", it is never approaching anything aggressive enough to venture into the realms of metal. Excellent uses of dynamics are on display throughout the recording.

"...if you see me cry then understand me, try
as the pressure within, draws to its lethal way
the plate which holds our promises is breaking
the ground which holds our future is shaking..."

Impressive is the overall representation of what this band is about through not only the music, but also the lyrics and images (provided by Travis Smith) adorning the CD booklet. The lyrical themes address a deeper understanding of human relationships, a questioning of emotional responses and exploring of mental awareness that carries with it an overriding element of fear. The images reflect these themes quite effectively, working well with the music to create reflective and contemplative atmospheres. Indeed, Winds Blow Higher does not allow for easy listening, despite it's dreamy soundpicture. This is music that needs to be experienced under an appropriate frame of mind to be fully appreciated. Rest assured, it is highly rewarding.
 

 3/28/04

Tracklisting

1. Lying In Wait
2. Winds Blow Higher
3. Sands Of Time
4. Solitude
5. Change
6. Strings
7. Rain
8. Moments
9. Do You Remember?