WDIY's Space Music Program airs every Thursday at 11 pm.
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The show started later than the scheduled 8:00 pm. This was a wise decision
on the part of host Chuck van Zyl. The Penn Relays had the entire
campus area tied up in traffic. Delaying the start wasn't painful and
it allowed the audience extra time to arrive.
After a brief introduction by Chuck, Tony kicked off the concert with
electric guitar textures which were bathed in reverb and then looped.
He was joined by John and Diane on various synthesizers. John also
played an electronic stringed instrument which he built. It included
strings, electric guitar pickups, a long spring, and a contact
microphone. Processed and reverbed, this unique instrument helped
transport the appreciative audience around the galaxy. Diane sings with
a clear, vibrato-free voice which provides a wonderful counterpoint to
the otherwise fully electronic soundscape. Although many themes were
recognizable from their CDs and a significant amount of background
material was played via sequencer, this was an improvised concert of the
highest order.
A short intermission was followed by a second, though shorter set. But
this was extended by an encore to reward the audience for their great
appreciation. Space music concerts are inherently difficult to review
due to the effect the music has on the heart, mind, and soul. But in
combination with lighting, fog, and video effects provided by Echoes
co-producer Jeff Towne, the music, if successful, takes the listener on
a pleasant journey which must, after all, be experienced. If you can
attend a Spacecraft concert or a Gathering, by all means
treat yourself to such exquisite experiences.