Asher En Machina

a review of 'prism, mirror, lens,' a new work by Asher Thal-Nir, available at archive.org


Asher Thal-Nir is a man with Reach. He has spent the previous four years or so searching for a meaning beyond the notes and rhythms we are all accustomed to. What he's found should shock us all.

The links he's found between notes and the harmonies they form form a new world we should all explore. He reminds us of the machinine existence we face day in and day out, whilst encouraging us to remember our own humanity. For in this mix of man and machine Asher has drawn us a map of where we are to go. It is only our own sentimentality that forces us to long for a past of placid and pastoral dreams. And only cynicism can seduce us into preparing for an automated future existence.

So out of this dust and debris we are given 'prism, mirror, lens.' The listener is encouraged to seek his own within this madness. The most wonderful art answers deep questions; the most profound compels the observer to answer the questions it poses.

Go forth, and answer 'prism, mirror, lens.'

Boy.

A poor boy in 76th Oscar hat + leather + cords all pimply faced and nervous can't wait to get off the bus pay his 90c + go enjoy... what's in his bag? beers or music or books. Another trodden soul on his way to his heart, careful to step.

Rain.

This is America. And its raining.

A tavern and a tuesday afterwork and Irish Cider listening to men debate baseball and the physical features of yesterdays girl. This is America because the Sox are lousy this year and its rained all summer without a break in humidity and men can't get a job, or laid, or a dream. This is america because there aren't any good tunes on the radio and mp3s now cost a buck. This is america because water costs more than soda and four men want one job that pays less than they earned in speaking fees last year.

This is america and its raining. This is america because its raining.