Review by Squidco
Percussionist Steve Hubback’s project Metal Moves presents the percussionist, composer and instrument maker’s work, using drums, gongs, bells, cymbals and percussive sculptures in well-developed compositions that evoke mysterious environments that evolve into muscular displays of extraordinary power, a beautifully balanced album of uniquely voice solo percussion. All instruments in these recordings are created and performed on by Hubback. “Son Yr Christr” is a traditional Breton work; all other pieces are composed and performed by Hubback.
Review by Downtown Music Gallery.
METALKYMIST with STEVE HUBBACK – Metal Moves (FMR 582; UK) Welsh drummer/percussionist, Steve Hubback, has jazz with British legends: Keith Tippett, Evan Parker & Alan Skidmore, as well as playing in rock bands and dancers. In 1990, Mr. Hubback started making his own gongs and cymbals, eventually turning them into unique structures for him to play. Mr. Hubback has worked long on creating these unique percussion structures which must be seen to be believed. Check them out here: https://www.stevehubback.nl/cymbals-and-gongs. Aside from numerous solo offerings, Mr. Hubback has recorded with Andrea Centazzo, Frode Gjerstad and Dietmar Diesner. Every few years, Hubback records under the name of Metal Moves with three previous CD’s on the FMR label. This appears to be a solo effort released under the Metal Moves name with Mr. Hubback playing drums, cymbals and gongs. These instruments are immensely dynamic and superbly well-recorded. The music often sounds like Mr. Hubback is telling a story or taking us on a journey. It sounds as if Mr. Hubback is using a bow or some sort of reverb device to enhance his unique metal instruments, adding an aura of mystery or dream-like resonance. The music also has a ritualistic sounding vibe as well. I don’t think I’ve heard percussion music quite as diverse and compelling as this. Certainly Metal Moves are/is in a world of their own creation. Consistently marvelous! – Bruce Lee Gallanter, BMG CD $14