Hidden World

If Gary Stroutsos' lineage was Native American instead of Greek-Italian, he'd be acclaimed as the leading exponent of the Native American flute. On "Hidden World," his fragile, wind-blown melodies are set against a shimmering aurora borealis of electronic textures from Jonn Serrie, one of the premier space music synthesists. Unlike the more orchestral expanses of his previous, Native-inspired disc, "Spirit Keepers," Serrie opts for spacious soundscapes like those heard on his new solo collection, "Century Seasons." Stroutsos only occasionally echoes Native themes. Instead, he weaves a snake charmer's melody over clay pot percussion on the title track and recalls Debussy on "Mystery Of Falcon Cove." There is a slow-mo pace to the album that becomes oppressive, overriding the carefully detailed design of each piece. Yet there is a refined serenity to "Hidden World," a meeting of virtuosos in a music that ultimately eschews virtuosity.