Whalesong

Tim Wheater's two extended pieces on Whalesong are based on the distinctive songs of the humpback whales recorded by Ross Issacs in the waters off the east coast of Australia. On "Whalesong," Wheater weaves four or five layers of music: the chirps, squeals, and cries of the whale (whose song can last for ten minutes), a repetitive bass organ drone sequence that sets some sort of cadence, two or more flute lines that weave and float above, and interesting sonic accents such a vocalise or high pitched bubbly sounds. The whole is so well integrated and heart-centered, the music almost breathes for you. Near the end, Wheater begins a stately melody, which almost makes the whales fly. The first section of "Whale Echoes" has a deeper resonance, almost like stately Tibetan overtone chanting. Joining Wheater on his smooth flutes and rhythm bass is Gary Thomas on handdrum. The second section brings Thomas in on didgeridoo, which snarls like the watery depths and sometimes mimics the snorts of the whales. The mournful cries, deep growls, and breathing of the whales are accented by clicks of feeding shrimp and high-pitched temple bells. Both pieces are very peaceful and suitable for relaxation, meditation, or massage. Notes about the whalesongs, which are repeated note-for-note over a ten-minute period, are included in the liner notes. The CD includes a bonus, the full "1989 Song of the Southern Humpback Whale."