Three Jewels by inside/outside by Don Campau

 

Don Campau has been on my scope for more than 25 years. I have discovered his work through numerous collaborations that he has done over the years with many artists I had a pleasure to listen. 

His newest album Three Jewels is not different from those - it is a duo of Russell Leach and Don himself.  It is a set of eight tracks that span over variety of styles and despite being difficult (or in my case I think it is simply an amalgam of diverse compositional approaches) to describe - the album is a trademark of quality that Don has been providing since Day 1.

Ethereal improvised music with a bit of field recording here and there - an open form which might remind you of free jazz and a cinematic atmosphere that is acquired through only seemingly simple and easy to figure out techniques, modulations and repetitions. But foremostly the spiritual aspect of this music - not being forced upon the listener but rather open to interpretation by slowly unfolding all the tissues and veils of those lovely tracks. 

There is a spirit of experimentation but all the tracks have a mellow, peaceful atmosphere that have had me not only relaxed but also thinking of how much music that is being released these days is oversaturated with imploding means of all sorts. Don's and Russell's album is on the other side of this spectrum. It is a fantasy made real, nothing trivial and shallow but having a poetic atmosphere that has a foundation in graceful skills of both musicians and their experience,  

Released on 7-31-13, this is the fourth album by the duo of Russell Leach and Don Campau. Another aural adventure mixing melodies and beats with experimental soundscapes. Avant tribal.

Recorded in Santa Rosa CA.

Russell Leach: percussion, keyboards, small objects, jaw harp

Don Campau: keyboards, guitar, bass, electronics, production

for more releases, radio shows, and free download go to: doncampau.com

credits

released September 15, 2025

Bandcamp