It's safe to say that nobody else makes acoustic music quite like Greg Kelley and Bhob Rainey. As Nmperign, the duo craft microscopic symphonies with but a trumpet and a saxophone, utilizing their instruments as a software engineer utilizes a computer – repurposing, enhancing, deconstructing. “Ommatidia” demonstrates this analogy quite nicely – gusts of wind, percussive splatter, metallic squeaks and strange vibrations emanate from the CD; the sounds are hardly what one associates with trumpet and saxophone.

Kelley and Rainey have been at this game for over ten years, yet this is their first high-quality studio album as a duo. There aren't many surprises here for those familiar with Nmperign's brand of quiet cacophony, but as with most records like “Ommatidia,” every listen does reveal something undiscovered. The broad dynamic range of the recording is a gift for deep listeners, and the long, breathy tones offer up many nuances. So, if you're already a fan of the work of this duo, “Ommatidia” is sure to solidify your stance; if you've yet to become introduced, it's a perfect opportunity to jump right in and enjoy. 9/10 -- Bryon Hayes (13 January, 2010)