by Jim Brenholts
David Parsons is one of the primary practitioners of electro-tribal atmospheres. He mixes deep world music sensitivity with strong electronic textures and timbres. Ngaio Gamelan is a hybrid sound world in which Parsons melds his electronic wizardry with Tibetan gamelan bells and other ethnic acoustics. The electronics create gentle atmospheres; the acoustic percussion instruments set the pace. The soundscapes are huge. Parsons performs at this level to convey his spiritual messages to his listeners. His sound design is psychoactive and shamanic. He is one of the top performers in this style. While the musical parallels are few, the emotional and spiritual responses are similar to those evoked by Steve Roach, Constance Demby, and Robert Rich.