Title: Very Mellow, But a Bit Thin
Review: I'm embarrassed to reveal that until now I thought that all the recordings I have that feature a group named Gamelan Semar Pegulingan were played by the same ensemble, and I attributed perceived differences to changes in personnel over an extended period. But this disc, missing the sometimes clangorous climaxes of the discs I own, led me discover that Semar Pegulingan is a style not a moniker.For the benefit of neophytes, a gamelan is an orchestra of metallophones, sometimes abetted by flute, percussion or voice, that performs as a single instrument. Javanese gamelan is more ethereal, but those from Bali like this one are generally more aggressive and percussive. This group is an exception to the rule; more mellow and relaxed. This is most expert and enjoyable playing nonetheless.
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