Splendid Virgins, the title of Amphibious new CD, is a rendering of the 15th Century Monastic chant O Virgo Splendens. In Amphibious hands the voices of cello, bass clarinet and guitar weave sinuously together, peppered by buckshot and subtle micro grooves from the drums. In Secret Love they re-work Doris Day’s well-loved hit. Somewhere takes material from Somewhere over the Rainbow and grafts it into a Stravinsky inspired progression, interrupted by a post-rock wall of guitar, electric cello and drums.
Here is what has been said about this young(ish) band Amphibious and their first CD – by some of the most authoritative names in music.
“The atmosphere of this highly original album [aLive & Breathing] is of jazz-infused classicism delivered in fascinating moods, from floating tranquillity to surging excitement.” John McBeath (Weekend Australian April 2011)
“One of the most exciting young ensembles to come my way is Amphibious. They are musicians of rare talent, combining astonishing virtuosity, expressivity and honest communication of striking beauty. They defy old trends by crossing classical boundaries and are on the verge of carving a real presence in the music industry… ” Paul Dyer, Director of the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra
“Amphibious combine classical music’s melodies, with the free abandon of jazz and killer pop hooks, for a new music – perfectly adapted for the modern, genre blurring world.” Peter Nelson, “On The Corner”, 2SER-FM, Sydney
“Amphibious are onto something quite special. Their unorthodox instrumentation makes for an ensemble sound which strikes the ear as truly fresh. It “works” because each member is a consummate musician and an utterly fluent improviser. With such innate musicality, they are able to bring their beguiling pieces to life in a thoroughly organic and natural manner.” Lloyd Swanton,( musician, composer, broadcaster: Leader of The catholics, Co-leader, The Necks
“…music’s always depended on finding new ways to create fresh unity out of diversity. Amphibious brings to this process a subtlety and sophisticated musicality that ensures whatever direction they follow will be fresh and inventive.” Ross Edwards (one of Australia’s foremost classical composers).
“aLive & Breathing “contains elements of jazz, rock, classical and folk, but the results sound organic and integrated rather than cherry-picked. The mood is often pastoral and the playing sensitive and affecting.” John Shand (Sydney Morning Herald April 2011)
” Amphibious are one of the most interesting young bands around, highly interesting in their off-the-beaten-track approach to harmony and a rhythmic sense of timing and pacing that is definitely beyond the normal fare. Their sound world is really quite unique. I like the sense of openness and adventure of these musicians!” Georges Lentz (one of Australia’s most renowned Classical music composers)
