THE DEAD TEXAN
The Dead Texan (Kranky)
Reviewed by Sherman Wick

---

Adam Wiltzie (The Dead Texan) has written one of the most memorable scores in recent memory. Eleven tracks were composed to accompany independent filmmaker Christina Vantzos' videos. This is the first collection of scores for Wiltzie, who has performed in atmospheric electronic bands Stars of the Lid and Aix Em Klemm.

The music is presented in themes that recur throughout the score. "Glen's Goo" is a stunning combination of strings and electric piano that climaxes with a melodic verse sung at the end of the track. "A Chronicle of Early Failures, Part 1" is more melancholic, and features dueling guitar and piano chords that gradually transform into a prolonged beautiful wash of feedback, and "Part 2" continues in an even decidedly more ambient vein.

Then there is the restrained piano tinkling on "Aegina Airlines," once again featuring melodic and memorable melody; or the swelling interaction between guitar, piano and strings on "Girth Rides a (Horse)." Wiltzie's score is truly a work of genuine beauty. Hopefully, in the future his work will receive greater exposure.

© 2004 - Sherman Wick