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Like most people I missed this gem when it first came out in 2006, which is a shame because Julian Julien's “Strange” is one of the better instrumental albums to come to my attention over the past year. A lot of different music can come to mind when listening to this colorful CD; the art pop experiments of Brian Wilson, Les Baxter’s exotic arrangements, Indian soundtracks, the electronica pastiche of Kruder and Dorfmeister, Ennio Morricone and Phillip Glass’ short works to name a few. Its hard to find a genre label for this album, but basically “Strange” consists of exotic art-pop tunes and cinematic soundscapes with very inventive instrumental combinations and rich sonic textures. The melodies used are catchy, but never trite or boring, at the same time, many sections are more ambient or minimal than melodic. There are plenty of Indian and electronica influences on here, but nothing is used in a cheap gratuitous manner, all of the elements fit together naturally.
Some standout cuts include “Tinananana” with its Indian dub beat that constantly slips in and out of a double time tabala driven break-beat and “Le Caqnon” with its Bollywood melody and sublime Les Baxter style wordless vocal ending. “Sophie”, with its ambient techno beat topped with Indian flute solos is also nice. This is highly recommended for those who like interesting exotic instrumental music with some modern electronica touches. “Strange” is a very imaginative album that deserves wider recognition.
