Member:
jlneudorf
(Profile)
(All Album Reviews by jlneudorf)
Date:
1/2/2011
Format:
CD (Album)
All Over Everywhere is an American band formed by Dan Britton (Deluge Grander, Cerebus Effect, Birds and Buildings) and multi-instrumentalist Trinna Kesner. The band formed in 2007 and Inner Firmaments Decay is their first release. Both musicians bring their own influences to the table as the album mixes dreamy folk music, classical elements and lush symphonic arrangements. The album also has its share of progressive moments as there is a lot going on beneath the layers of sound. Helping Britton (keyboards, guitars) and Kesner (acoustic guitar, violin, viola) flesh out the sound are Natalie Hughes (cello, bass), Jennifer LaPlatnia (piano, accordion, vibes), Megan Wheatley (vocals), Kelli Short (clarinet, flute, oboe), Ignacio Cruz (zither, dulcimer, electric guitar), Pat Gaffney (drums), N. Scott Robinson (percussion) and Brian Falkowski (flute, clarinet). It is an impressive list of instruments and the band do not let any go to waste as the sound on Inner Firmaments Decay is rich and full yet soft and delicate at the same time.
The first six tracks have an aura of melancholy that beautifully matches the album’s slightly morose title and the dreamy cover art, which was done by Britton’s sister. The album’s first song “Art of the Earth” has a calming dreamy quality about it that is prevalent throughout the album. I love the atmospheric middle section with its dense layers of sound and quality background vocals. I should point out the vocals are stellar throughout the album although I wish they were not quite so buried in the mix. This is only a minor complaint and not one that I will dwell on here. Next up is “Endless Night”, a dark and mysterious track all wrapped up in a veil of sadness. “The Shroud” is another strong song with slow build ups and excellent keyboards adding many hues to an already rich palette of sound. The gentle “Until the Sun Begins To Fall” features soothing waves of violin and a pretty keyboard melody. The album ending “Grattitude” is a more uplifting track and one of the album’s best. Excellent drums, lush keys and pastoral moments of grandeur, along with a killer symphonic arrangement gives this one plenty of drama.
Inner Firmaments Decay is a fine debut album and one that will stay in my player for some time to come. Thoughtful and provoking, All Over Everywhere should appeal to a wide audience with its intriguing mixture of folk and prog.
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