Carl Weingarten – The Simian River Collection 1980-2020 (Multiphase Records, 2023)
“The Simian River Collection 1980-2020” is a remarkable 3 CD compilation that covers Carl Weingarten’s solo produced releases from the early 1980s through his Ember Days CD in 2020. The package also includes selected tracks of previously unreleased, out of print, remixed and live recordings.”The Simian River Collection 1980-2020 is a 3 CD compilation that covers Carl Weingarten’s solo produced releases from the early 1980s through his Ember Days CD in 2020. The package also includes selected tracks of previously unreleased, out of print, remixed and live recordings.
Carl Weingarten, a fascinating guitarist and musician, has steadfastly carved his path as an independent musician during four decades. Rather than relying on the support of a conventional record label to endorse his artistic visions, he established Multiphase Records to autonomously release his groundbreaking creations.
“The Simian River Collection” is a magnificent triptych, elegantly encapsulating the distinct chapters of Weingarten’s musical odyssey. Each of the three discs symbolizes a unique epoch in his artistic voyage. Commencing with the initial disc, “All Things Return,” Weingarten’s virtuosity spans the years from 1980 to 1990, unearthing an extraordinary tapestry of genres. Here, Weingarten includes bold New Age, jazz, minimalism, ambient, and contemporary classical elements, woven together in a breathtaking symphony of creative excellence.
Moving seamlessly to the second disc, “Hand In The Sand,” the material covers from 1990 to 2005, delivering a mesmerizing assemblage of collaborative performances, notably in partnership with renowned bassist Michael Manring. This chapter unveils Weingarten’s enduring ability to harmoniously merge his visionary talents with those of fellow virtuosos, constructing an ethereal landscape that resonates profoundly with listeners.
The final disc, titled “The Simian River,” unravels the tapestry of Weingarten’s musical expedition from 2005 to 2020. Within this chapter, a metamorphosis transpires as he undergoes an enchanting artistic evolution towards a more organic soundscape. The timbre of fingerpicked acoustic guitars intertwines gracefully with sumptuous arrangements, offering listeners an immersive experience. Even amidst the employment of richer arrangements, the songs exude an aura of warmth and gentility.
Notably, Weingarten’s skill with the slide guitar emerges as a crowning jewel in this collection. Dazzling tracks such as “West of Austin” and “Up The Down Slide” serve as highlights for his extraordinary command over this instrument. Moreover, the collection is further enhanced by a diverse array of collaborations with acclaimed musicians, interweaving an eclectic tapestry of sounds and instrumentation that further enriches the auditory journey.
In the liner notes accompanying this extraordinary collection, Weingarten eloquently conveys his ardent desire to create a comprehensive and enthralling set that will captivate both neophyte listeners and devoted aficionados alike.