Lyle Workman: "Purple Passages"

Lyle Workman:
"Purple Passages"

Immune Records (1006)
Released 1996

Originally published in Cosmik Debris, July 1996.
© 1996 by Paul S. Remington. All Rights Reserved.

Haunting lyricism, melodic balance, harmonic maturity, rhythmic perfection, these are but a few descriptive phrases used to describe Lyle Workman's latest release, "Purple Passages," a compact disk consisting of eight instrumental pieces. Workman has created a stunning collection of music carefully crafted in a near-solo fashion.

Primarily rock by feel, Workman utilizes a variety of musical influences from traditional blues to international influences, with distinct melodies and complex, yet accessible chordal structures. As Workman describes, "It's music written on and featuring the guitar with emphasis on chordal composition, melodies, and moods. My goal was to write music that transcends structural and stylistic limitations, yet has a strong melodic foundation. [The creation of `Purple Passages' was] a constant state of experimentation and discovery."

Workman is accompanied by six musicians on half the CD; one to two musicians on each of four pieces. The remaining four pieces are performed solely by Lyle. Workman is virtually a one-man-band. He is his own composer, arranger, producer, and engineer on both the initial recording and mixdown. He performs practically every instrument, including all electric and acoustic guitars, bass, the diatonically tuned, 27 string Finnish Kantele, and drum programming.

With so many areas of talent, it's no wonder Workman spent time performing and recording with musical wizard Todd Rundgren. His previous credits include work with the critically acclaimed pop group, Bourgeois Tagg. He can be found on Bourgeois Tagg's "I Don't Mind at All," and Rundgren's "Nearly Human" and "Second Wind," to name only a few releases. He can also be seen on two Rundgren videos, "Todd Rundgren Live in Japan," and "The Making of Second Wind." Workman is currently writing and recording with Frank Black, and also Jude Cole.

Workman has produced a compelling CD that does not become tiresome with repeated listening. With a mere 45 minutes of material on a single CD, the only drawback to this release is it leaves the listener wanting more. For those that enjoy polished rock not forged in repetitious chord sequences and banal melodic and harmonic content, this CD is a musical treat for even the most discerning ear. A must buy!