Did you ever have that experience of listening to David Bowie’s “Low” and thinking: “damn, this like nothing you’ll hear anywhere…” only to discover that it’s a brilliant blend of styles that never ought to have worked together? A similar, if not identical, experience can be had by listening to LA-based Poseidon’s Alley AKA Tim Herscovitch.
While writing the above sentences I was indulging in Dr. Gachet, a psychedelic, electronic, chill-wave instrumental track which owes more than a few overtures to groundbreaking alternative artists of the 70’s and 80’s, not to mention a little Miles Davis, for good measure. With lo-fi pads supporting a funky guitar groove we journey through layers of catchy themes played on synths and a host of other instruments. I suppose what’s most impressive is the neo-classical elements of blending different moods and transitioning through them, much like movements in a concerto or symphony. Indeed, Dr. Gachet is never boring – and the captivating melodies, harmonies, and rhythms are augmented by the interesting timbers chosen to carry the same.
Poseidon’s Alley shows first-rate musicianship, which is why I was not all that surprised to find that Herscovitch is a professor of music. A quick look at his rating on ratemyprofessor.com shows that (according to his students) he’s passionate about education as well as music. This is nice to see as I have always felt as though educators ought to always maintain a link to the professional world and it seems that Tim Herscovitch is doing just that.