Sebastian Gandera - Le Raccourci
Superb compilation of experimental piano and electronic work from unknown French composer
The music of classically trained French composer Sebastian Gandera (real name Eric Morin) will be a hidden gem for many. Why his exquisite work has remained largely unknown until now is not clear but let's not grumble.
From an apparently vast back catalogue of cassettes produced between 1988 and 1994, Julien Dechery has selected fifteen tracks (entitled Le Raccourci) to give us a perfect snapshot of the artist's primary focus: the piano. Like Gonzales, there's an experimental and entertaining form to his piano compositions that crosses over into electronic realms with tape loops and synthesisers being used to great effect. You'll be hard pushed to find a better solo piano album this year, rich in melancholic melody and quiet introspection. Beautiful.