Ball of Wax 68 Songs: S. Eric Scribner – “Processional”

S. Eric Scribner‘s “Processional” is a solemn affair. Even without the title, the slow, insistent drum beat and swirling soundcape of flute, ambient sounds, and piano manipulations call to mind a long train of dignitaries, possibly from some ancient or undiscovered civilization, maybe even on another planet, commencing a great, elaborate ceremony. (Which is appropriate, as this music was created as a companion to Scribner’s series of fantasy novels set in the world of Tond.) As such, the structure feels loose, as if the assembled players are playing not to a score, but to the slow, ceremonial assembly of people unfolding before them. The drum sets everything in motion, of course, and while the berobed and behatted get themselves in order and make their way to the front of the hall, the other players phase in and out, perhaps using different sounds to signify various members of this esteemed body. Once everyone is assembled, staring out upon the rest of us with great pomp, the flute and drum bring us to a close, the final drum hit ringing out to lead us into . . . whatever brought us all here.