A while back I hooked up with Tributary Music, Las Vegas, USA, and they agreed upon sending us some material right away. Reviewing it left me somewhat baffled. This was something entirely different from what's usually sent to us. It took a *lot* of getting used to, but eventually I was able to tell our readers something sensible (I hope) about these unique releases. 

Right now I am facing much the same situation. Somehow I imagine this sort of music not being on CD but closing my eyes I see a theatre stage with an enormous band of musicians and actors on it performing parts. Like on a Broadway musical, for exercised listeners, mind you, 'cause John Miner's Art Rock Circus is no easy listening. 

Production, like before, is somewhat on the skimpy side, but in this case it adds to the atmosphere hugely, so don't you dare consider that a negative argument. It gives the music an authentic, nearly live recorded feel.

John Miner finds himself surrounded by some excellent musicians once again. Both vocalists Karyn Anderson and Karen Rene'e do an excellent job, truly adding to the ambience of the material and recording. 

Also, the addition of saxophone and violin on the epic third track "Underground" was a great idea. Miner himself, of course, plays the guitar and sings backing vocals in addition to writing the material (actually: coming up with an entire storyline which is clarified by the CD insert somewhat. However; there's plenty of room for own interpretations.)

Those of you who are willing to take a shot at Art Rock Circus should really check out www.tributarymusic.com and inform yourself of the way things work there. The approach to making music differs a whole lot from any of the other CD's reviewed on our website, and will definitely take a *lot* of getting used to, but once you got it down it's a whole new world. 

There's lyrics, background information and above all several mp3's for you to download and check out. Not just this record, but earlier projects such as Mantra Sunrise and Heaven's Cafe as well. (Reviews of these you should be able to find in our 'Archives' section..