BIOTA: Invisible Map

Glenn Astarita

Senior Contributor since 1997

Longtime contributor to AAJ and Downbeat, Jazz Review, EjazzNews, Radio DirectX.

Recent articles (1,629 total)

Published: June 1, 2001

Invisible Map represents the eagerly anticipated follow up to Colorado-based BIOTA’s 1995 release, Object Holder. Here, the large ensemble continues their distinctive melding of multicolored psychedelic dreamscapes, bustling backbeats, odd-metered rhythms, unfathomable EFX and much more. Throughout these thirty-seven pieces, the band pursues disparate textures of sonic beauty consisting of integrated themes amid existential implications along with the angelic vocals of Genevieve Heistek.

Basically, BIOTA’s modus operandi features homogenous abstract/folksy musings surrounded by traces of Middle Eastern motifs, Indian ragas, surreal or perhaps roguish pop-rock melodies and wistful harmonies. On the piece titled “Mineral”, the band executes slightly contorted proclamations in concurrence with a seamless blend of North African themes and ethereal interludes that might elicit notions of time travel or a lucid dream. At times, you will hear lap steel guitarist Mark Piersel plucking away with countrified charm atop accordionist Gordon Whitlow’s Parisian accents and Randy Yeates performances on something called a Biomellodrone keyboard. Hence, Invisible Map indicates another milestone for a band who inhabit a very special musical world. One that should be investigated by more than a select few. Highly recommended!!

BIOTA

ReR

Track Listing: Moment, The Rapid Color, Port, Call, Landless, Air on Water, Mineral, Common Broom, Birhtday, Dustman, Sleeping Car, Snake Out, Occurrence, Top Ray Done, Glass Lizard, Telegraph Plant, Spoonbender

Personnel: Genevieve Heistek; lead vocals, violin: Steve Scholbe; slide guitars: Tom Katsimpalis; guitars, Clavioline, balalaika: Gordon Whitlow; accordion, pump organ: William Sharp; electronics, hurdy gurdy: Larry Wilson drums: James Gardner; Rhodes, noe, trumpet: C.W. Vrtacek; piano: Randy Yeates; Biomellodrone keyboard: Mark Piersel; acoustic & lap steel guitars: Andy Kredt; electric guitars: Visuals by

Record Label: ReR Megacorp
Style: Fusion/Progressive Rock