Treny

Gusstaff is a small independent label based in Poland, which has already released two previous albums by Michal Jacaszek. Jacaszek's third full length album, Treny, is also picked up by Erik Skodvin's Miasmah. The latter mentioned label is quickly gaining recognition among the ambient and modern classical connoisseurs with CD releases (Miasmah started out as a net label) from great artists like Encre, Rafael Anton Irisarri, Elegi and now Jacaszek. Looks like Miasmah has also picked up Jasper TX for his upcoming July release, Black Sleep, but more on that later... Treny is a modern classical marvel that immediately jumps to the top of my favorites for this year. And big thanks to all my readers who recommended it as Best of 2008 So Far in their submitted lists. Patiently paced melodies evolve in the hands of skillful violinist Stefan Wesolowski and cellist Ania Smiszek-Wesolowska [sounds like the two are a couple ;) ]. The reverb treated organic acoustics are complimented with piano phrases and atmospheric electronic treatments by Jacaszek. Through out the tracks, Maja Sieminska's voice glides within the hazy soundscapes like an echo of awakened ghost. My good friend Paul observes, "I listen and feel I have lost everything..." My immediate impression brings back that majestic moment of discovering an album that will stay with you through sweet and dark moments alike. Based out of Gdansk, Poland, Jacaszek is a profound manipulator of electro-acoustic sounds and fits right along my favorites like Dictaphone, Porn Sword Tobacco, Marsen Jules, Zbigniew Preisner and of course Deaf Center. Highly recommended.

Dope.

I love this cd. I really like Murcof and when I discovered Jacaszek I was so impressed that I felt he was even better in some ways. Just my opinion obviously so do what you want but it's worth a listen.

As sad as it is equally beautiful. Restrained but not boring or too sparse in atmosphere. I've really enjoyed my time with this one; seems a very apt soundtrack for winter or any periods of contemplation. If your familiar with Serein label mate Brambles I would definitely recommend picking this one up.

This cd is one of the best.truly beautiful. like walking through someone else s dream.spiritual, moving and ghostly. Its like your visiting a sacred site alone and after hours.You feel as if you are witnessing something no one has seen before.truly magical.wonderful soft violins with floating choral vocals and acoustic treatments.with a touch of changing the tv channel select dial on an old b/w tv late at night with all the stations shut down.This is one of the best things i have heard in a long time.I must thank headphone commute for her review as i purchased the cd on her recommendation.If you like your music downtempo, chilled out and emotional then this is a must.Cannot recommend this highly enough.Buy it and buy it now.beautiful stuff indeed.

I am a fan of ethereal music like Dead Can Dance, This Mortal Coil, and The Cocteau Twins. Their music is old now but Jacaszek's is new, haunting and very beautiful and lush. Check the artist's myspace page and give it a listen.

Go to his Myspace page and listen to a few of the tracks, you'll have to buy it after you hear it. I can't believe how beautiful this album is. Not much else to say, I give it my highest recommendation, buy it now, you won't be disappointed.

Experimental music...sounds atmospheric and refreshing but from times to times you cant figure out if it is the vinyl's bad quality (tics and pops) or the music itself...

This guy really knows what it means to transform feelings into music! Fantastic LP for everyone who is in love with music!