Provinces

**** 4-stars

Washington State based Origin Records steps out of their comfort zone with the 2020 release of Provinces from composer and multi-instrumentalist Christopher Icasiano. Very unusual sounding yet rewarding as a musical experience, the eight part CD is a fine showcase for Christopher's drumming, percussion and keyboard skills. Sounding like a modern day horror film soundtrack, bordering on avant-garde instrumental music and even extreme progressive rock, Provinces is filled with unexpected sonic twists and turns while Christopher's startling drumming permeates the sonic spectrum as does his ethereal and penetrating synth work. Partly recorded in Christopher's native country of The Philippines and mostly in Washington State, the 2020 release of Provinces is one of the most unusual sounding albums ever released on Origin, yet the music is very much worth the time and energy involved in listening to it. For CD fans, extra credits for the gothic artwork.