Netherland Dwarf: May the Piper (2012)

Japanese project NETHERLAND DWARF is the creative vehicle of a so far unnamed and unknown musician, who prefers his endeavours using this moniker to be merited by the musical end result only, possibly feeling that naming names of the people involved would be a distraction. He made his debut with "Moi Moi" in 2011, and 2012 saw him release the EP "May the Piper" as a legally free download on the Japanese Totokoko netlabel.

And it is an intriguing set of compositions we're presented with. Unlike the debut's album multiple references to symphonic progressive rock and classical music, the associations this time around are closer to the kind of music artists like Pascal Comelade are known for. In terms of style descriptions, toy music is perhaps the one I'd pick. The slogan of the netlabel chosen to publish this material is rather descriptive too I guess: "Tiny things in a tiny space that make you relief".

The core elements utilized throughout this EP is a kind of metal based, melodic percussion instrument. Most likely a metallophone of some kind or other, but with the resonances it gives I'm unsure about whether we're dealing with an expensive instrument or one of the toy variety. Much the same can be said of the second recurring element: A dampened flute of some kind, that sounds like a recorder of some variety or other but with a curiously distanced sound. Supplementing the proceedings on occasion are dampened drums of some kind, more often than not laying down a marching pattern, and a gentler, sharp subtle percussion element, possibly castanets of some kind.

It's the metallophone instrument that takes the lead on most occasions however, providing energetic, jubilant patterns of a wandering nature with a distinct positive vibe to them. Naive and simplistic in nature, with the tonal range and sound of the flute when applied emphasizing this aspect of the proceedings in a massive way. Much the same with the marching drum patterns I might add. This is music suitable for and sounding like escapees from a 70's children's TV show. Slightly odd, joyful and positive, with a naive and innocent atmosphere a core feature throughout.

Concluding this EP is a remix of opening and title track May the Piper, showcasing just how different this composition can come across when a diferent set of instruments are utilized as the main theme provider, an acoustic guitar in this case.

"May the Piper" is an EP that will have something of a limited appeal I suspect, but those who find pleasure in music of a naive, innocent nature as you might otherwise encounter in a children's TV show from a few decades back, you might want to inspect this production anyhow. It's a free release after all, so all it'll demand of you is a,little bit of your time.

My rating: 73/100
Track list:
1. May the Piper
2. Pole Pole
3. Cloud 9
4. Hammock Cafe
5. Siciliano
6. Urban Tango
7. Mocha
8. May the Piper (Dot Tape Dot Remix)