Jimmy Virani (aka Nicolas Huguet) is a Theremin player. What’s a Theremin? You know, it’s that non-touch sound wave antenna contraption thing that makes those weird space age-y noises (think 1950s sci fi movies and songs like Good Vibrations by the Beach Boys or just look it up at Wikipedia). Jimmy Virani’s first go at professional recording, Jimmy Virani is Beachcombing in Outer Space, is a set of nine classic exotica and Hawaiian songs which showcases his accomplished Theremin virtuosity.
Of course, I realize that less than two weeks ago, I posted that I’m not really into writing music reviews, but when good friends send me their musical offerings from overseas (Virani’s base is France) – and I really enjoy listening to the music they make – well, I just can’t help but to spread the word about it.
Jimmy Virani is indeed a good friend and someone I’ve had some excellent tiki adventures with. I actually bought a Theremin from him a couple of years ago but ended up selling it back to him. I found it to be an extremely complicated instrument to attempt to play. It required hours of dedication and concentration even to learn how to sustain a note, not to mention trying to carry a tune. Virani’s ability to make his Theremin sing so eloquently and with such accuracy deserves a listen!
Jimmy Virani is Beachcombing in Outer Space (featuring excellent backup by TJ Weger and Josh Gibson of the Haole Kats and the Lost Idols), is quirky and entertaining. Fans of exotica and Hawaiian music will immediately recognize the cocktail sipping mainstays performed, including Sweet Leilani, Quiet Village, and Aloha Oe. My faves are his rendition of Hawaiian Wedding Song and his cover of Don Ho’s I’ll Remember You. The Theremin lends itself to the melodies of these songs in a really sweet way. Beyond the fab tunes, the CD features some exceptionally cool cover art and design work by the extraordinary Mexican low brow artist, Dr Alderete.
Speak French? Check out Jimmy Virani’s blog for more info. And, if your Japanese is adequate, go here to purchase a CD. Otherwise, visit http://www.myspace.com/nicolasvirani for samples, videos and details on how to purchase this fun set of songs.
