Rolling stones - Germany 2010

"On November 20th, 2009, Chris Hooson performed a concert in a church in Bari, Italy, together with his childhood hero and musical partner, the cellist David Darling, and pianist Quentin Sirjacq. Hooson loves this trio format; he has written albums specifically for it and temporarily set aside regular songwriting. Most of the pieces on Vallisa come from the recent instrumental Dakota Suite albums, and the other new work, The North Green Down, is also represented. Hooson continues his journey into silence—this record sways and drifts like a dream.

The sorrowful Hooson—whose depression is both the central theme and, unfortunately, the recurring anecdote of his career—experienced, by his own account, a moment of spiritual healing during this concert. At times, the heavens truly seem to open above the fragile and never-overwrought improvisations and compositions. David Darling, a soulful virtuoso, has every opportunity for free expression, supported by the delicate piano études that trickle beneath him.

Sitting in a church in Italy, one can’t help but reflect on the remarkable path that has led Chris Hooson from the world of introverted folk songs gradually into that of neoclassical music."

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Recorded live in a chapel in Bari
chris hooson - vocals and piano (on 'hands swollen with grace')
david darling - cello
quentin sirjacq - piano

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octobre 2010

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Glitterhouse records