CD

Let me start this review by mentioning that I have been a strong fan of Alex Grey’s work for many years. Grey’s pictures resonate strongly with my involvement in wholistic healing, speaking to me of bioenergy and spiritual awareness. I particularly like his Sacred Mirrors. A personalized, signed print of The Cosmic Christ hangs prominently on my wall at home, in a place I look frequently – reminding me to reflect on the spiritual in my life that resonates with Grey’s work.

The WorldSpirit DVD was a lesson to me in where I am in this world – though almost certainly not as its producers intended.

The core of this DVD is a concert presentation of Kenji Williams’ music, wonderfully enhanced by Grey’s images that are projected simultaneously on three screens. The blending of images and music is masterful and inspiring. I experienced this as Grey’s images enhancing Kenji’s music, rather than the reverse.

Alex Grey reads a narrative script during the presentation. The first portion is rhymed, and a copy of the words is included in the DVD booklet. The remainder is spoken text. While the spoken words add to the presentation, the rhymes detract from the flow as a whole. Grey does not come across with an inspiring stage presence. These factors detracted from my enjoyment of the presentation. I have seen Grey in small group presentations where he was much more spontaneous, dynamic and inspiring.

The Chapel of Sacred Mirrors animation is a beautiful framing of Grey’s work. You are led, after a brief whirlwind imagery trip (that is probably intended to suggest spiritual essence but missed the mark for me), into a virtual hall where the Mirrors series appears on the circular room walls. The tour is brief and brisk, ending without the flair of it’s introduction. The accompanying music is appropriate to the rhythm of the tour.

As musical presentations enhanced by imagery, I give this DVD a high score. For those who are at home with [Martina – please help me with words to categorize Kenji’s music!] music, this is inspirational.

My disappointment in these presentations comes from my years of quiet contemplation of Grey’s images. I was expecting a central focus on Grey, but found the music to be the focus, with the images adapted to complement the music. I was particularly disappointed in the rapid pace of the virtual Sacred Mirror Temple tour. I would have been happier with the pace of Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition or Smetana’s Moldau, which might have allowed me to deepen my appreciation of Grey’s work.

For more information on Worldspirit: Susan Mainzer susan@sugar-lab.com 213-840-0077.

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Blessings

Dan