The final track on the disc, "Smokeless Heat" is a live recording and checks in at nearly twenty-four minutes and is the penultimate attempt by the composer and the performers to create a piece of music that allows the audience to appreciate something that develops slowly and over a period of time. I found that while I didn't feel anything in particular, that it caused my mind to wander down a variety of emotional paths, as various moments stirred reactions within me.

Yet, I wonder at how effectively they would be able to communicate with people who are not used to, or willing to, take the time to listen to something which unfolds this slowly. There is beauty in each moment of the song for those who are willing to spend the time allowing it to affect them, but those used to being spoon fed emotions and told how to think and feel by popular culture are not going to be interested.

The Art Of Dying is an exploration of how time can be used in music to help increase the depth of feeling expressed by the performer and experienced by the listener. While the musicians are most definitely committed to this project and have done some exemplary work, the problem is whether or not there is an audience who is willing to listen beyond those who are already interested in this type of music. If a person would be willing to take the time and put the effort into listening they would get something from it, but how many people are willing to do that anymore?

The Art Of Dying is beautiful and evocative music that challenges our perceptions of time and what is needed to create an emotional response. If you are willing to take the time to listen you will be deeply rewarded.