Another incredible musical influence I discovered whilst babysitting in the 1980’s was Japan. The couple had a rather amazing vinyl collection, which I was able to play when I sat for them. The sound of David Sylvian’s voice was, and still is something of pure pleasure to listen to. I took a few tapes with me when I sat for them and recorded the albums, and when home poured over them in an almost obsessive way. I could not get enough of Sylvian’s voice, it was like listening to honey being poured. Again avant-garde music, but with something else attached, maybe its an inner peace, or a deeper understanding of the lyrics? I don’t know what it is, but his music, no matter who he collaborates with, be it Ryuichi Sakamoto, Ingrid Chavez, Robert Fripp or his solo compositions, I cannot find a track I do not like.
Nine Horses, another collaboration that produced an elequent jazz sound with very deep set of lyrics, and still is something that I listen to all the time.
In 1983, the film “Merry Christmas Mr Laurence” was released, the soundtrack was done by Sakamoto and Sylvian. Again the music burned into my psyche. I got a copy of the film on VHS, and quite literally wore it out listening to the music. I later bought the soundtrack.
I have a love for electronic music including Jean Michel Jarre, Tangerine Dream & Bernard Szajner, but Sylvian manages to feeds that love, but like all good food, you want more.
Mr Knitter 