by Heather Phares
1992's Kaleidoscope shows off Bill Douglas' ever-broadening palette of musical colors. While the classical/jazz/ambient foundation of his music still presides, the world music aspects of his compositions comes to the front. Celtic, North and West African, Indian and South American musical instruments and motifs highlight the 12 songs on Kaleidoscope. In particular, "Brilliant Star's" Indian-inflected melody and Latin rhythm and "Windhorse's" Afro-Celtic dance make a strong case for the album's new-age/world fusion. The classical-inspired "Open Sky" and "Nocturne" return to Douglas' roots, and each piece features his trademark melodic lyricism.