River Ghosts review at Terrascope.co.uk

“Also the work of one man, this time Jakob Rehlinger, “River Ghosts” is a wholly enchanting album recorded under the name of Moonwood. Featuring such instruments as Bamboo Flute, Gongs, Ekatantri and percussion, along side the more obvious Guitar and bass, there is an eastern feel to the ten tracks on show here, something that is highlighted by a rich warm production. After a brief opening track, that sets the scene, The album gets into its stride with the quite magnificent “Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Society”, a gorgeous slow moving piece, filled with drone and percussion, over which a Gourd Flute blows ever so sweetly, all you have to do is close your eyes. With tinkling bells and jangling percussion, “Bamboo Whiskey” is another brief aural delight, whilst “Drawing Water From a Poisoned Well” utilises a bowed guitar in its quest for sonic perfection, the piece containing some hypnotic guitar work. On side two the wonder continues, with for more long tracks in the same style, with the excellent “cholera in the Time of Love” being the pick of the bunch for me, whilst side closer “Blood Red Riverbanks” gets the silver medal for its epic grandeur. Taken as a whole, this is a sprawling and sumptuous treat that will carry you away to distant lands.” ~ Stephen Palmer, Terrascope.co.uk