On Manafon, experimental singer/songwriter DAVID SYLVIAN takes the next logical step up from his previous record Blemish. That platter had Sylvian improvising alone with his guitar and keyboard, with guest guitarist DEREK BAILEY on a handful of tracks. Manafon finds Sylvian continuing down the improvisational path, but backed by a gaggle of musicians from the jazz, pop and electronic worlds, including guitarist KEITH ROWE, saxist EVAN PARKER, electronicist CHRISTIAN FENNESZ, pianist JOHN TILBURY, turntablist OTOMO YOSHIHIDE and more. The results aren’t as explosive as one might expect – Sylvian keeps the accompaniment low, even sedate, letting his accessible vocal melodies carry the songs as if he’s afraid his buddies will wake the baby. The record has such a consistent tone it’s probably better to think of it as a sustained mood piece rather than a collection of individual tracks – it certainly strengthens its appeal if you don’t look for the new “Orpheus.” Fans wishing for a return of the high craft of his early work will be disappointed by Manafon, but folks intrigued by his current direction will appreciate his continued development.
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