Cromulent: (adj.) appearing legitimate, but actually being spurious.

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Cromulent Noir pays a subtle homage to the musical style of film noir. The initial smoky texture eventually shows its charm in hazy, jazz-tinged hues, exploring unexpected tonalities that seem to be on the edge of disaster—like the work of the femme fatale. The heart of the piece features a juxtaposition of two stylistically different sections, hence the title, “Cromulent Noir.” After the listener is soothed into the sulky mood of the piece, it changes direction. After a return to the opening statements, the music finally becomes tranquil; perhaps this was the end goal all along.

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“Cromulent Noir”: appearing as noir, but actually being something quite different. – JA

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Program note by Justin Ashley. Please credit Justin Ashley when reproducing or excerpting this program note.