An Explosion of Memory

Joel Mandelbaum may be pushing 90, but his latest album, "Prayer Before Work / Song Cycles 10/11 (With Primeval Candor)" proves he's still got it. The opening track, "Prayer Before Work," is a haunting blend of ambient sounds and ethereal vocals that transport you to a higher plane of existence. It's like listening to angels sing while contemplating the meaning of life in your cubicle. On "Song Cycles 10," Mandelbaum takes us on a journey through the British English countryside, with folk-inspired melodies and poetic lyrics that would make Shakespeare blush. The album's closer, "Gein," is a haunting ode to the infamous serial killer, complete with creepy whispering vocals and eerie instrumentation that will send shivers down your spine. Overall, Mandelbaum's latest offering is a bold artistic statement from a master of his craft. It's a rare gem in a sea of mediocrity, and a must-listen for anyone who appreciates music that pushes boundaries and challenges expectations. Trust me, you won't regret spending some time in the musical world of Joel Mandelbaum.