Monologue is being released by a record label with post-rock leanings (Büro), a subsidiary of a very modern, very urban label (City Centre Offices), and distributed in North America by a hip specialty importer, Forced Exposure. Yet, it is deceptively simple, pretty and common. With this first solo album, I’m Not a Gun’s Takeshi Nishimoto reveals himself as a genuine troubadour! Monologue consists of 12 short pieces for acoustic guitar. No overdubs, no studio trickery, just plain acoustic guitar instrumentals, with what feels like a strong influence from British progressive guitarists such as Anthony Phillips and Gordon Giltrap — an influence found in the complex structures and inventive chords. Lack of originality aside, Monologue delivers what it promises: a gentle moment full of melodic tunes and introspective pieces. Particularly strong are “Reflections,” “Coming Home,” and “Memory 4 AM,” all quite moving. “Interweave” adds a fleeting Brazilian touch. The album was recorded in a church, which gives the guitar a well-rounded sound, but also lets street noise filter through, generating a level of background noise that can become uncomfortable at times. Now that you have been warned, Monologue can be quite an enjoyable, if a bit light, album. – François Couture
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