Liverpool based multi-instrumentalist and classical guitarist Neil Campbell has been a mainstay on the local scene for quite a few years, releasing a handful of recordings either solo or with other musicians from his collective. Particle Theory, the 2nd album with the collective, was a year in the making and features eight songs that perfectly blend together all the best elements of progressive rock., folk and even classical music, with traces of experimental electronics, to offer what is arguably one of the most diverse musical productions of the year.
Drummer, percussionist Mark Brocklesby's driving rhythms provide a fantastic springboard for the majestic dual interplay of Campell's often delicate acoustic guitar and piano, with the poignant and achingly beautiful passages from Nicole Collarbone's cello on tracks like "Aria", "The Line" and "The List". While the majority of Particle Theory's compositions are basically instrumental, the track "Angels and Aeroplanes" features a great duet between vocalists Jeff Jepson and Victoria Melia. The closing track "Particle Theory 2" resembles a children's lullaby for the first half of its seven minute duration, before exploding into an energetic mid tempo tour de force, features the angelic soprano vocals of Anne Taft.
Particle Theory is a very well produced collection of varied, melodic and layered compositions that not only highlight Campbell's strengths as a performer but more importantly as a songwriter as well. If you've never heard of Neil Campbell or his collective of musicians then Particle Theory is a perfect place to start.
Track Listing
1) Particle Theory
2) More Particles
3) Aria
4) 517
5) The Line
6) The List
7) Angels and Aeroplanes
8) Particle Theory 2