Eternal Anomaly

Dear Mugenites,

Would it be accurate to assume that some of you have misconstrued this “shift in priority” as an act of betrayal? If so, I must admit, I’m deeply disappointed. After some careful consideration (ie. assessment of the dissatisfaction I’m feeling), I’ve decided to break the ties that bind…essentially, beginning anew. Details regarding my whereabouts are unimportant, however, this revelation has allowed me to rediscover an overshadowed enthusiasm for music. Fortunately, all is not lost.

On the plus side, my objective wasn’t to “cut the umbilical cord”, only to vanish forever. All things must come to pass, but like any obsessive habit, Mugen requires a gradual withdraw. That said, Hauzer shall be completed as planned (though I’ll undoubtedly leave the dubious pleasure of publicly announcing his release to the discretion of the community). Conclusively, I’m cordially inviting those individuals, with whom, I’ve established concrete friendships.

Typically, reviews are an exercise in futility (ie. personal judgment infrequently sways the headstrong consumer), but I write to inform, rather than persuade. I digress…

Commitment comes full circle with ‘Best of Breathe’: a compilation album spanning the band’s brief period (1986-1990) of commercial success. Remastered by Ray Ang, the twelve tracks are presented in a vibrance leagues beyond the original, CD presses of ‘All That Jazz’ and ‘Peace of Mind’. Of course, one can’t ignore the distinctive, vocal prowess of singer/songwriter David Glasper.

First off, “Hands To Heaven”: Breathe’s big break, as far as hits are concerned. Glasper’s unforgetable brand of articulation shines throughout this soulful ballad, where the gifted frontman bids farewell to his elegantly limber love. A tenor saxophone (audible in the last, forty seconds of the song) brings this expressive composition to its dramatic finale.

Next, “How Can I Fall”: a finely crafted serenade, detailing the natural uncertainty of relationships. Gliding along roaring bass lines, David Glasper delivers another heartfelt performance. I firmly believe that Billboard’s Hot 100 (of 1988) did this melodic number a grave injustice.

Moving on…”Don’t Tell Me Lies”. Although this upbeat tune lacks the emotional impact of the previously mentioned recordings, it’s still a gem of professionalism. As expected, Glasper demonstrates an acute facet of modulation, while simultaneously easing the subject matter to a far more flattering level.

Other noteworthy tracks include, “Say A Prayer” and “All This I Should Have Known” (a regret-laden treasure, which to no surprise, is sung beautifully). In closing, this EMI production offers an extent of sophistication I rarely experience in music. Twenty-six, American dollars is steep…that is, if quality isn’t what you crave.