Dennis Kolen – Northeim/Goldmine – Stockfisch Records 180gram audiophile vinyl SFR 357.8059.1 ****:
(Dennis Kolen – guitar, blues harmonica, bass, vocals; Ferry Lagendijk – piano, Fender Rhodes, Hammond B3, mellotron; Wietse Zeedijk – bass, vocals; Jimmy van der Nieuwenhuizen – drums, percussion; Beata Kossowska – blues harmonica; Beo Brockhausen – saxophone, flute, autoharp, percussion; Lea Morris – harmony vocals; Wojtek Bolimowski – violin, string arrangements; Oksana Labach – viola; Lucile Chaubard – violincello; Hans-Jorg Maucksch – fretless bass; Peter Funk – dobro; Zsuzsanna Bolimowski – violin, Sven von Samson – hong)
Dennis Kolen’s Northeim/Goldmine (previously reviewed on SACD), has been released on 180 gram vinyl. The homage to 1970s folk rock represents the lyrical and harmonic qualities of this genre. Kolen’s eleven introspective songs reflect the heartfelt sentiments and observations of a world traveler. The music evolves from a basic guitar quartet. Kolen’s expressive playing and fluid vocals anchor the album. However, the overall ambiance is enhanced by the nimble session musicians. Tracks are layered with strings and accented with dobro and reeds.
The sequencing of the tracks is suited to the LP format. Gunter Pauler has created a natural auditory feel that complements the material. This is noticeable in the vocals by Kolen and the backing harmonies (especially those of Lea Morris on “Hey California”). The tone of the acoustic guitar captures an intrinsic rootsy mood.. String accompaniment adds organic subtlety that does not intrude on the individuality of the singer/songwriter. Reed play by Beo Brockhausen is measured and never overpowering.
Stockfisch continues to excel in cutting-edge recording. Vinyl aficionados will be enthusiastic about Northeim/Goldmine.
TrackList:
Side A: The Shape Of Things; Seaside Rendezvous; The Ties That Bind; Stay With Me; Stand Inside Love
Side B: For Cloud Dog And Jane; Hey California; She Knows Me So Well; The Boy In The Photograph; Halfway To Heaven; Your Goodnight Blues
— Robbie Gerson
