Album Mini-review: Endless Tapes — Brilliant Waves
File next to: Brian Eno, Lunatic Soul, *Low-era David Bowie
Considering the pedigree of the better-known half of this duo, one might expect Brilliant Waves to lean in a muscular and “proggy” direction.” Bassist Colin Edwin is renowned for his work on twenty Porcupine Tree albums, plus many other projects that showcase a harder, musically challenging side of rock. But the darkly hypnotic mood pieces on this (essentially) instrumental album have more in common with the contemplative works of Philip Glass, Steve Reich, and Brian Eno. Which isn’t to suggest that the eight compositions are the sonic equivalent of wallpaper; there are melodies and beats, and Edwin plays Ebow and guitar as well as an assortment of basses. Brescia, Italy-based drummer Alessandro Pedretti is Edwin’s counterpart, and the result of the two musicians’ collaboration isn’t too far removed from some of Porcupine Tree’s early instrumental works, most notably their oft-overlooked 1998 album Metanoia.
About the Author
Bill Kopp
With a background in marketing and advertising, Bill Kopp got his professional start writing for Trouser Press. After a stint as Editor-in-chief for a national music magazine, Bill launched Musoscribe in 2009, and has published new content every business day since then (and every single day since 2018). The 4500-plus interviews, essays, and reviews on Musoscribe reflect Bill's keen interest in American musical forms, most notably rock, jazz, and soul. His work features a special emphasis on reissues and vinyl. Bill's work also appears in many other outlets both online and in print. He regularly hosts lecture/discussions on artists and albums of historical importance (including monthly events Music to Your Ears and Music Movie Mondays), and is a frequent guest on music-focused radio programs and podcasts. In Spring 2023 he taught a history of Rock 'n' Roll at UNC Asheville's College for Seniors. He also researches and authors liner notes for album reissues -- more than 30 to date -- and co-produced a reissue of jazz legend Julian "Cannonball" Adderley's final album. His first book, Reinventing Pink Floyd: From Syd Barrett to The Dark Side of the Moon was published by Rowman & Littlefield in 2018, and in paperback in 2019. His second book, Disturbing the Peace: 415 Records and the Rise of New Wave, was published in 2021 by HoZac Books. His third book, What's the Big Idea: Great Concept Albums will be published in 2024. Read even more about him here.