Simon Leoza has been honing his craft in the three years since the release of his debut album Albatross. A live album was followed by a pair of singles and scores for a ballet and a short film. In September, he turned his attention to a major project, releasing the first of what would eventually be three “scenes” of ACTE on three EPs, three tracks per EP; the full set is now released, including a slightly reshuffled order and three additional tracks. The scoring influence is immediately apparent, as the album is intensely theatrical and possesses a keen sense of flow.
Once again Leoza splits the difference between modern composition and electronics, featuring an eighteen-piece orchestra and well-integrated beats. Guest vocalists appear on two tracks, providing the possibility of crossover hits. Nothing has been left to chance; we can imagine the album as the score to another ballet, awaiting choreography.
“III (serenade)” eases the listener gently into the set with emotive strings. “atoms, atoms, atoms” bears the first synthesized notes and comes as a surprise on first play; after this, one acclimates. Chimes appear deep into the track as the electronics recede; when they return, they do so much more gently than at first. Pilou appears on “Illusions,” restrained at first, the vocal really opening up on the back end, drawing the instruments in its wake.
Most of the elements are now in place, but not all. “_terra_firma_” showcases achiing trombone and sports a title that looks like solid ground. Spoken word appears on “EVA,” as l i l a asks, “Is there life after life?” And in the album’s high point and longest track, “millionaire,” a quiet synth beginning hides the fact that a post-rock song is about to break out, thanks to the copious use of snares, swirling strings, brass, glockenspiel and an upward tempo shift. We imagine this as the grand finale of the concert, although of course we’d like an encore! Leoza offers two, one with beats and one without, wrapping a bow around the project.
The composer writes that the album is meant to reflect the breadth of the human experience, an ambitious goal for on a single disc. Perhaps it’s more realistic to report that the album delves into highs and lows, but mostly highs, lifting the spirit ever higher as it progresses. (Richard Allen)
a closer listen 