Hans-Joachim Roedelius: Pink, Blue & Amber – A brilliant piece of work

This reissue of one of Hans-Joachim Roedelius’s most collaborative works, Pink, Blue & Amber, evolved from a decade of sessions with Yuko Matsuzaki, Felix Jay, Fabio Capanni and other musicians. Its influence has grown since its initial release, in 1996, and signifies a transition in Roedelius’s creativity, which reached from his kosmische work with Cluster and Harmonia to a deeper romanticism that has remained a radiant touchstone.

This is one of his best ensemble works, bringing together almost a dozen musicians to produce something ambient, tender and engaging. Poetry is incredibly intricate, with its elegant piano, and Early Blue makes deft use of Jay’s deconstructed gamelan chimes, which glide and swoop. Beyond Crimson Bridge is cinematic in conceit, and Glass from Jasper is sad and lovely.

The Yellow Bird folds in confiding saxophone, Violet Fields is all tender melancholy, and Gem acts as a dialogue between east and west, with warm keyboard underscoring Matsuzaki’s koto. The title composition is jaunty and yet restrained, and Smell of Dew seems to answer the question of what morning dew might actually sound like – it is evocative and moving, just as The Bambuswind is textured and inventive.

This is a brilliant piece of work. Curious and comforting, it invites us to revere stillness and tenderness where we can. In a world that often seeks to quell softness and bait with distraction, this record is a gift.