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Gary Smith/Joe Gallivan/Pat Thomas |
| POWERFIELD [FMRCD199-0206] |
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| Gary Smith (stereo guitar), Joe Gallivan (moog synthesizer, electronic percussion),
Pat Thomas (keyboard & electronics)
Powerfield comprise of three highly individual performers and stalwarts of the electro-acoustic scene. Gary Smith has, over the last few years, led his own field of stereo processed guitar techniques, demonstrated on his previous FMR release ‘Forgotten Room with Chairs’ (FMRCD52-V0798). Pat Thomas has supplied his breathtaking electronics to much of the best electro-acoustic & improv releases over the course of his career. Along with the highly reputed talents of Joe Gallivan, here with his electronic percussion and moog, this is sterling stuff for all fans of the genre.
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Trevor Watts Drum Orchestra |
| BURUNDI MONDAY [FMRCD198-0206] |
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| Peter Knight (violin), Mmadi Kamara and Nana Tsiboe (African percussion), Ernest Mothle (bass),
Liam Genockey (drum), Trevor Watts (saxophone)
This CD represents in some ways a ‘first’, marking as this recording does a previously unreleased line-up, the Trevor Watts Drum Orchestra of the early 1980s.
This was a crucial turning point in Trevor’s evolving career, following a succession of Amalgam line-ups in which this alto saxophonist, with an already deserved international reputation for contributions to the evolution of free jazz and improvised music outside the American diaspora, was evolving a complex, polyrhythmically-driven approach to spontaneously generating new ideas capable of sustaining ongoing developing structures. |
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ENJAMBRE ACUSTICO URUKUNGOLO /TREVOR WATTS/GIBRAN CERVANTES/JAMIE HARRIS |
| MUTUALITY [FMRCD197-0206] |
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| Trevor Watts (saxophones), Gibran Cervantes (urukungolo), Jamie Harris (percussion)
Watts has forged his own path to become reknowned for his collaborations with musicians from different continents such as his Moire Music Drum Orchestra recordings with African drummers. Recent trips to Mexico led to him meeting percussionist Gibran Cervantes. His instrument, the urukungolo: a large wooden frame with a series of differently tuned Berimbaus are wired together, he can pluck or strike them with sticks, and bend notes. The sound is akin to a Grandfather Hammered Dulcimer or Finnish Kantele. (it also, on this CD, sounds like a slapped bass guitar). Recorded at the Lewes Literature Festival, they are joined by rising percussionist and Watts’ protegé Jamie Harris for this fine, original live recording.
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PAUL DUNMALL/PAUL ROGERS |
| FAR [FMRCD195-i0206] |
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| Paul Dunmall (soprano saxophone, bass clarinet), Paul Rogers (7 string ALL bass) |
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Chick Lyall David Garret: GREEN ROOM |
| UNDERTOW [FMRCD193-0206] |
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| UNDERTOW is the latest release from GREENROOM after an interval of ten years. Originally working as a trio,percussionist David Garrett,along with pianist Chick Lyall and guitarist David Baird forged a musical language which drew from such wide sources as jazz,modern 'Classical music' and the radical sonic experiments of John Cage and Karlheinz Stockhausen. Conventional instruments such as piano, drums and guitars could be combined with electronic sounds driven by computer as well as newly constructed instruments and found objects.
Since 1998 Chick Lyall and David Garrett have continued to evolve the music of Greenroom by means of a combination of live improvisation with prepared computer generated sequences. On UNDERTOW they produce an even wider range of colour than before. Multi timbral explorations are combined with detuned acoustic instruments,flutes,sampling and electronic programming. Composition and improvisation exist simultaneously and the music is somehow arrived at through a dialectic of structure and freedom.
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Raymond MacDonald/Neil Davidson |
| FLAPJACK [FMRCD190-i0106] |
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| Raymond Macdonald (alto/soprano saxophone), Neil Davidson (guitar)
Following on from a series of recordings and performances with Satoko Fijji, and Tatsuya Nakatani amongst others, this is the first duo CD by two players from the burgeoning Glasgow free improvised music scene.
Neil Davidson and Raymond MacDonald are both members of the Glasgow Improvisers Orchestra. They have worked together in various other scenarios, with Satoko Fujji and Natsuki Tamura, in a quintet with Tatsuya Nakatani, Nick Fells and Peter Nicholson and in various groups under the aegis of the kite flying club in Tchai Ovna.
Neil Davidson has recently completed an artist’s residency in Munich (Villa Waldberta) involving collaborations with musicians in Munich. He is currently working on a project with sound artist Aileen Campbell.
Raymond MacDonald’s recent work has included a Japanese tour in December ’05 and a concert in Milan with George Burt and Walter Prati.
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PAUL DUNMALL/TREVOR TAYLOR/PAUL ROGERS |
| ZOOCHOSIS [FMRCD189-i0106] |
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| Paul Dunmall (saxophones), Trevor Taylor (percussion & electronics),
Paul Rogers (7 string ALL double bass)
Fresh from their recent highly succesful BBC radio 3 broadcast witht the 7 piece expanded group heres the trio recording .what does zoochosis mean?
“Zoochosis”: You’re likely to find this word used by animal rights activists in reference to what they see as the degrading effect of zoos on the animals they contain.
Many animals, especially the large carnivores, become deeply depressed, even psychotic, as the result of captivity. Symptoms of zoochosis include nervous pacing, head rocking, and self-mutilation.
In this recording the three musicians experiment with a different form of Improvisation than they have been known for, by multitracking different sections over a period of time instead of in one live session. This has been done deliberatley to 'build' various sections and atmosheres in a form of composition created yet still by Improvisation. The results are stunning!!!! |
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FEAT. DAVE LIEBMAN |
| TONY BIANCO'S MONKEY DANCE [FMRCD188-i0106] |
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| Tony Bianco - drums, bass & piano,
Dave Leibman - saxes & wooden flute, Eric St-Laurent - guitar
Ali Keita - Balaphon, Adam Lennox - Producer
Expert US drummer Tony Bianco’s great new band was put together with his long term friends, producer Adam Lennox and saxophone legend Dave Leibman. A culmination of three friends appreciation of each others work. Bringing in Eric St-Laurent on bass and the great balaphon player, Ali Keita, do a piece with Dave. The resulting recording has an uncanny quality. With the pieces concentrating more on ‘form’ due to Bianco’s suberbly devised repetitive chord changes, Dave’s sense of space and Eric’s taste for rawness bring out that primal simplicity that brings the whole thing into focus.
“I have for the theme of the recording Hanuman the monkey god, who serves the cause of Rama. Each piece reflects his adventure in the great Indian spiritual and romantic epic ‘The Ramayana’.” Tony Bianco
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Paul Dunamll/Paul Rogers/Tony Bianco |
| COSMIC CRAFTSMEN [FMRCD185-i1105] |
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| Paul Dunmall (saxophones), Paul Rogers (6-string bass), Tony Bianco (drums)
A superbly recorded slice of free improvisation from three of the leading exponents of creative music. Recorded at the Jackson lane venue in Highgate, London during a wonderful free improv event organised by the music specialist record shop Sound 323.
Seperated into three sections, the performance begins with a performance of Tony Biancos Drone style drumming, followed by Paul Rogers and Paul Dunmall’s exquisite dynamic exchanges on 6-string bass and saxophone respectively. The recording is rounded off by a glorious trio performance. which cements the players’ reputations as the ‘cosmic craftsmen’ we already know them to be.
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DIRK WACHTELAER |
| RECONSTRUCTION [FMRCD184-i1105] |
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| Dirk Wachtelaer (acoustic drums, electronics), Luc Mishalle (sax (track2)),
Michael Weilacher (percussion (track6,8)), Toshinori Kondo (electric trumpet (track12))
Dirk Wachtelaer’s companion piece to his impressive ‘konstruction/deconstruktion’ (FMRCD84-0701) features all the components that make this percussionist/electronicsist such an intriguing talent. Processing and sampling his own acoustic drum samples, Dirk then triggers these using an Octapad, in turn creating whole new rhythms and sound. This excellent CD comprises twelve tracks of experimental, yet infectiously rhythmical music and features additional ‘performances’ from regular contributors: saxophonist Luc Mishalle, percussionist Michael Weilacher and Japanese (electric) trumpeter Toshinori Kondo. Those who haven’t entered Dirk Wachtelaers soundworld before could do no better than through this great new recording.
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Elton Dean, Tony Bianco, Jon Wilkinson |
| NORTHERN LIGHTS FREEBEAT [FMRCD182-i1105] |
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| The concept of Freebeat came through Tony Bianco’s realisation that time signature is another way of phrasing. “In Freebeat you will feel the pulse, it kind of feels like 4/4, but when you try to count you’ll find that you can’t count anything into it. It’s a combination of beats and phrasing, more like the way speaking occurs. Three of these pieces freature my bass parts looped (sometimes up to a hundred bars), then I play the drums to the bass track, afterwards adding keyboard chords, then Elton and Jon add their parts where I was able to open up the pieces into more of a free zone, while still feeling the pulse.. All tracks were first takes by all on board. The great work that both Elton Dean and Jon Wilkinson contributed is obvious. Straight and Free. Chaos and Order. Liberty and Responsibility combining for Freebeat.” Tony Bianco
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CALLING SIGNALS |
| LIVE IN THE UK [FMRCD181-i0805] |
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| Frode Gjerstad (clarinets), Tony Marsh (drums),
Eivin One Pedersen (accordeon), Nick Stephen (acoustic bass
A brisk return outing for Nick Stephens and Frode Gjerstads improvising quartet. Recorded at the 2005 Southend International Jazz Festival, this stirling performace captures Gjerstads clarinets and Stephens’ controlled bass stunningly. Eiven One Pedersen’s accordeon is again included to great effect, its sound opening up whole new avenues for this exceptional unit. Also featured in this recording is Tony Marsh, stepping in on percussive duties, an exceptional drummer whose name alone can usher in new depths of creation and add that extra special emotive spark.
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Roger Smith/Adam Bohman |
| LIVE [FMRCD180-i0905] |
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| Roger Smith (guitar), Adam Bohman (found objects)
Recorded live at The Dixon Theatre, Westcliff-on-Sea this exhillarating
music features the unlikely combination of Roger Smith?s acoustic
guitar and Adam Bohman?s found objects and although this is their first
CD release as a duo they have played together
extensively.
Needless to say, Smiths totally original and exhaustive exploration of
the sound possibilities of the acoustic guitar are equally combated by
Adam Bohmans vast array of fascinating household and industrial
instruments. Together they traverse the well worn boundaries of noise
and music, searching for pertinent music landscapes, no matter how
abstract. A wonderful combination!
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ERIK QVIK/STEVE HUBBACK: |
| WONDEROUS SOUNDS [FMRCD179-I0805] |
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| This duo recording features two of the most original percussionists on the planet, the explosive drummer/percussionist/sculptor/smith Steve Hubback, a Welshman living in Iceland, and one of Swedens leading drummer/percussionists Erik Qvik. For this recording Steve uses his usual set up of sound sculptures made entirely by himself while Erik employs a more traditional acoustic drum kit with added sound sculpture and effects. Their styles are surprisingly different, but they quickly establish a healthy empathy and the wide range of stimulating percussion improvisations proves without doubt their status in the world of creative music. |
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| CALLING SIGNALS [FMRCD177-I0505] |
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| Coming after the major success of recent groups involving Frode Gjerstad such as ÔUltralyd' and his ÔSt Louis' Trio on FMR this is strangely different! Perhaps its the sound of the bandeon played by the wonderful Norwegian Ilvind Hendriksen that provides a more laid back and introspective texture for the groups overall sound. And again it is less frenetic, more folky and opens new frontiers for group improvisation and its sound palette.Fans of Frode Gjerstad will, however, not be disappointed, as with musicians such as as Paal Neilsen Love as well as Frode, British bass player Nick Stevens and the inclusion of Hendriksen, the outcome could only be as it is: highly stimulating improvisation, that like much of Frode Gjerstads music, breaks new ground! |
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TONY BIANCO |
| TONY BIANCO: AVYAYAH - DRONE DRUMS [FMRCD176-I0505] |
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| My concept for this recording is that each drum piece serves as a meditation. A flame. An invocation. Inspired from the images from the great spiritual epic, The Mahabharata I called this record 'The Avyayah Drone Drums. 'Avyaya' is a Hindu word (one of the names of Vishnu) meaning constant, no change, that is a drone. I believe that the drone is an aboriginal or primal instinct in ancient music. One is of course reminded of the didgeridoo and of the distinctive tampura drone in Indian music. Along with the images of the Mahabharata I keep a war-like trance (by keeping a drone in the drums) consistent in all pieces. I hope this recording is enjoyed and hope that in some way my over-active imagination may have invoked some valid energy from the images of this great epic. Tony Bianco |
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FRODE GJERSTAD/SABIR MATEEN |
| GOOD QUESTION [FMRCD175-I0705] |
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| Following on from the excellent duo release with the legendary John Stevens, comes this dynamite duo recording with fellow saxophone guru Sabir Mateen recorded in New York City. Featuring ten improvisations which ably convey both players unique styles, skilfully interweaving, blending and playing off of each other in ways only the most competent saxophonists can. This is a must for all serious saxophone enthusiasts, and a wonderful document of two of the worlds most able players in the ever interesting duo setting and a continuation of Frode Gjerstads brilliant Duo Series. |
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| WATT?: THE LONGEST MAUVAIS QUART DHEURE [FMRCD174-I0505] |
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| Ibadet Ramadani (Voice/live electronics), Jorge Isaac (Blockflutes/live electronics), Charly Zastrau (Keyboards/live electronics), Jos Zwaanenburg (Flutes/live electronics), Tom Myrmel (Sound diffusion/tech support/anything else) Using a combination of strong software and traditional instruments to create a surprising world of electro-acoustic sound, songs and improvisation, the music of The Longest Mauvais Quart d'Heure, originally a music theatre piece uses E.M. Forster, B monster-movies, Beckett's shorter plays and blatantly old-fashioned science-fiction novels to supply the models for the sound, structure and imagery in this stunning performance. Within this wonderful work WATT? uses a live sampling program and a video-to-MIDI program developed by STEIM Amsterdam in which the vocalists movements are recorded by a digital video camera that triggers sounds stored in a computer. Although meant as a live performance piece it is presented here in a special CD version which preserves the feel of its original format to spellbinding effect. |
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MAYAS/NUTTERS/OLSEN/GALVEZ |
| ITS DIRTY IN THE DIFFERENT TRADITION [FMRCD173-I0505] |
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| Recorded in Studio Kockjoy in Berlin this brand new, firey quartet have burst onto the improvising scene to great effect. Abstract yet clearly a group working as a whole, Magda Mayas, Carlos Galvez, Koen Nutters and Morten J. Olsen clearly live inside the music they create, the players act as improvised music while the music acts as a real-time anchor ! .This music isn't easy to sum up in words, though the title of the recording gives the best description of this wonderful collection of seven joyous improvisations: |
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KEVIN NORTON |
| QUARK BERCUSE [FMRCD172-I0505] |
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| This is a brand new solo recording by one of North America's leading percussionists. Indeed, I could say that this music is inspired specifically by three musicians (Steve Lacy, Anthony Braxton and Haewon Min), but it is ultimately my music and I take responsibility for it. I've been developing this total percussion in improvised music idea for many years now and I feel that it's been encouraged by people like Anthony (amongst many others). This is an important journey for me and it will continue. Quark Bercuse is a culmination of where the musician has been heading in the last few years and an important platform for Norton's musical research and communication. |
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PAUL DUNMALL/TREVOR TAYLOR |
| ILLUMINATIONS [FMRCD171-I0805] |
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| Although old musical colleagues for over thirty years this is the first duo recording featuring in this case the saxophones and bagpipes of Paul Dunmall with the large sound sculpture, percussion and live electronics of Trevor Taylors new set up. The last recorded outing was with the larger ensemble, the Intuitive Art Ensemble (also on FMR), but here we have the more difficult medium of mixing live electronic sound with acoustic playing and the two succeed spectacularly. Dunmall of course is no newcomer to improvisation with drummers and percussionists and is often propelled to great creative heights when in the company of stimulating percussionists! But this is normally in a more formal jazz acoustic situation, so in that respect this is a different kind of music perhaps reflecting an even wider range of sound palette. |
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ROB HALL |
| THE BEATON PATH [FMRCD170-C0505] |
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| The Beaten Path is the much anticipated release from the Scottish-based contemporary duo of Rob Hall and Chick Lyall . Pooling their respective writing talents, both musicians contribute compositions, interspersed with a series of short, free improvisations. Their expressive range merges jazz, contemporary classical and Celtic sonorities, and this new CD recording exemplifies the fluid and engaging language these two fine musicians have developed over a two year period of performing together. The duo of Rob Hall/Chick Lyall has performed throughout the UK from concert halls to ceilidh rooms and is equally at home in jazz and multi-arts venues. British saxophonist Rob Hall has made a substantial impression on both the local and European scenes in recent years The Guardian. Chick Lyall is the most adventurous Scottish pianist of the current generation Penguin Guide to Jazz. |
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BARRY GUY |
| GLASGOW IMPROVISERS ORCHESTRA [FMRCD168-i0905] |
In Production |
| Emma Roche (fl, baroque fl), Matthew Studdert-Kennedy (fl), Nick Fells (shakuhachi), Daniel Padden (cl,voc,perc), Nicola MacDonald (voc), Pete Dowling (as), Raymond MacDonald (a&ss), Graeme Wilson (t&bs), John Burgess (ts,bcl), Robert Henderson (tr), Matt Cairns (tr), George Murray (trb), George Burt (g), Neil Davidson (g), Peter Nicholson (cel), Una MacGlone (db), George Lyle (db), Mike Travis (dr), Bill Wells (keys), Maya Homburger (baroque v), Barry Guy (db)
The third recording from one of the most exciting groups in Scotland! GIO have amassed performances with Evan Parker, Maggie Nicols, Keith Tippett and John Surman and now here are some stunning dialogues with the worlds greatest virtuoso bass player Barry Guy! An exceptional live recording, that also features, along with some of Scotlands most gifted improvisers, top pianist Bill Wells and violinist Maya Homburger. This is an example of how successful a large ensemble of improvised musicians can actually be.
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PAUL DUNMALL |
| SOLO SOPRANO [FMRCD167-I0805] |
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| The exceptional British improviser is captured on this recording during a magnificent solo set at The Priory in Southend on Sea during its 5th International Jazz Festival. Concentrating for this recording on solo soprano saxophone, an instrument for which he excels, this recording is a must for all collectors of this virtuoso saxophone collossus. Nothing more need be said but to simply listen to one of the worlds great virtuosos on a solo voyage of great beauty! |
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MARTIN SPEAKE SAXOPHONE QUARTET: |
| MARTIN SPEAKE SAXOPHONE QUARTET [FMRCD165-0805] |
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| One of Britain's leading saxophonists Martin Speake brings together this extra special quartet for an extremely rare performance of highly skilled improvised music. Although a saxophone quartet is a familiar grouping in the classical world its presence in jazz is a rare beast, and here each member of the group, using the full selection of horns, stamps their mark on proceedings. Considering the difficulties in combining such similar instrumentation and the fact that this is the first time Martin Speake has taken on such a project, he and his hand picked group of highly gifted saxophonists have surpassed themselves with a recording of sublime integrity and sonic wonder! |
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GEORGE BURT/RAYMOND MACDONALD SEPTET |
| THE GREAT SHARK HUNT [FMRCD165-0305] |
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| George Burt (guitar), Raymond MacDonald (alto/soprano saxes), George Lyle (double bass), Nicola MacDonald (voice/melodica), Bill Wells (piano), Daniel Padden (clarinet/voice/percussion) with Lol Coxhill (soprano sax). Recorded in East Kilbride Arts Centre, this is the fifth chapter in the celebrated saxophonist Lol Coxhills adventures with Burt and MacDonald. This new recording features the hugely successful pianist Bill Wells along with the presiding genius of The One Ensemble - Daniel Padden, a stalwart of the Glasgow Improvisers Orchestra. Lol plays his bent soprano on this session (like a tiny alto) and features the first ever recorded duet between bandleaders George Burt and Raymond MacDonald |
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DIDKOVSKYROGERS/NORTON: |
| THE BRIGHT LIGHTS, THE BIG TIME [FMRCD163-I0505] |
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| Four of the greatest improvisers around meet in New York. I will say a few words about this music ... I love Nick and Paul as human beings and musicians. We decided to do a concert at the Bowery Poetry Club in New York City on January 31, 2004. It was wonderful; the space had a wonderful vibe and the listeners received the music warmly and enthusiastically. I decided that we should record in a studio to capture all the details of the sounds we can make because live recordings (as exciting as they can be) tend to miss the quiet stuff. I knew it would be great because of the humanity and talent. Turn off the lights and listen..... Kevin Norton |
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FRODE GJERSTAD/JOHN STEVENS |
| LETS JUST KEEP GOING [FMRCD162-I0405] |
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| Norwegian saxophonist Frode Gjerstad recorded this wonderful, spirited meeting with his friend, the late, great John Stevens in 1994 and it is finally seeing a release on FMR. John and I did a few duos over the years and this is the last one we did. It was a warm up for a concert we were going to play with Kent Carter on May 2nd (which was released on Cadence as 'Last Detail'), I had just got my ADAT and this was the first recording I made on the machine. Listening back to the tape now, brings back a lot of memories. In between the tracks there is a bit of talking and joking. As we drove to the airport we talked a bit about future projects and he commented about what we had just done over the last few days, It's good what we've done, let's just keep going. In retrospect, those words get another meaning late-on Frode Gjerstad |
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THE DARTINGTON TRIO Keith Tippett, Julie Tippetts, Paul Dunmall |
| LIVE AT THE PRIORY [FMRCD161-I0205] |
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| Recorded live at The Priory, Priory Park, Southend-on-Sea as part of the 3rd Southend International Jazz Festival on Sunday 8th August 2004. |
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FREDY STUDER/HAMID DRAKE/MICHAEL ZERANG: |
| DRUMMIN' CHICAGO [FMRCD160-0505] |
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| Fredy Studer (drums, cymbals, gongs, metal, multiple percussion), Hamid Drake (drums, cymbals, metal, frame drum, tabla, multiple percussion), Michael Zerang (drums, cymbals, gongs, metal, darabuka, zither, tambourine, whistles, bells, multiple percussion).This recording in Chicago while Fredy Studer had a residency took place over the course of one day and night, and covers an enormous breadth of stylistic terrain, from heavy textural improvising to deep and inventive grooves. In some places, the three musicians contribute in extremely different and readily audible ways, while elsewhere their personalities merge into a startling group sound. From Zerang's amazing friction-percussion on snare drum, through Studer's other-worldly evocations on a giant gong, played with a mallet that's outfitted with a superball on its end, to Drake's infectious reggae rhythm on drum-kit (and this is just on track one!!) John Corbett |
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VANISHING PICTURES |
| LIKE ONE FEATHER [FMRCD159-I0105] |
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| Third outing for percussionist Dirk Wachtelaers superb Vanishing Pictures project. This time he has selected an even wider range of musicians from all over the world. Traditional Chinese music merging with free improvisation, North African vocals meeting laptop electronics. It’s music that can only be made today — impossible without the past — indicating a possible future. Also features a magnificent live track “And The Sun”, recorded in 2000 at the Beursschouwburg, Brussels, a classic electro-acoustic performance by a truly stellar line-up that includes Philipp Wachsmann and turntable and electronics guru Otomo Yoshihide and DJ Grazzhoppa. This is a collection of staggeringly executed music, taking in all the corners of world, electronic, and free improvised music to create a beautiful, complete whole. An album that not only crosses continents but bridges the divide between them |
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AXON |
| CONSTANT COMMENTS [FMRCD156-I1204] |
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| Deep Listening and communication by four internationally celebrated greats of the free music scene. AXON is a group with unique instrumentation and similarly distinctive musical personality. The group was formed in 1991 as a trio and has since toured extensively throughout Europe. Since 2000 the group has worked together extensively with pianist Fred van Hove. The legendary Phil Minton has redefined the voice and its role in music over the decades, Marcio Mattos, originally from Rio de Janeiro has become one of the most in-demand musicians on the London circuit, “Fred Van Hove may stand as the preeminant exponent of modern piano improvisation on this planet” (Glen Astarita) and Martin Blume’s “drive is not just his own rhythmic energy but above all the accord with the other instrumentalists” (Reinhard Kager) |
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FRODE GJERSTAD / NILS HENNIK ASHEIM |
| THE SHORTEST DAY [FMRCD155-I1204] |
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| Frode Gjerstad (saxophones), Nils Hennik Asheim (organ) Nils Hennik Asheim is a musician in an unusual yet highly enviable position, that of being an insightful, creative musician who specialises in an instrument that hasn't really been explored fully in the world of free improvisation. And this recording certainly exposes the amazing potential of the classical church organ when in the hands of such an open and talented musician as Nils Henrik Asheim. This wonderful musician is caught in full flight with the great Frode Gjerstad for this duo recording and it is the perfect example of a creative partnership made in heaven, the ethereal Asheim sound merging with the signature twisting sax of Gjerstad. Highly recommended this release brings us close to the end of volume one of Gjerstads excellent duo series! |
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Ultralyd |
| ULTRALYD [FMRCD154-I0704] |
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| Kjetil Brandsdal (electric bass), Frode Gjerstad (altosax, clarinet), Anders Hana (electric guitar), Morten Olsen (drums) This Norwegian quartet was brought together by enigmatic saxophone legend Frode Gjerstad. Formed solely with young musicians in mind, this is powerful rock inspired free music of the highest order. Gjerstad should be highly commended for the way he has seemingly guided these fine, talented new musicians into their current direction. These improvisations never get bogged down in the rock tradition and they balance the freshness of the best free music with the well worn jam sensiblity perfectly, creating a surprisingly breezy and hugely enjoyable CD recording. |
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GEORG GRAEWE, Kent Kessler, hamid drake: |
| FOR TRIO (16 FantasiestŸcke) [FMRCD153-I0704] |
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| Celebrated pianist Georg Graewe brings his excellent improvising trio to FMR. 16 FantasiestŸcke is a collection of (16) delightful trio improvisations and is a veritable hotpot of talent and technique. The trio demonstrate their skills with an almost telekinetic ability and it is a testament to them that this is music with not just a brain but with a soul as well. With Kent Kessler and the always excellent Hamid Drake, this is one of those mesmerising trio recordings that shouldn't be ignored! Listen to it alot and it will unveil myriad layers of new beauty and expression. Beautifully recorded and an excellent example of how a conventional piano jazz trio format have transformed the genre into a completely new language. |
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FRODE GJERSTAD/KEVIN NORTON |
| NO DEFINITIVE [FMRCD150-I0604] |
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| One can expect good things from any session with Kevin Norton's name listed in the personnel, New York's All About Jazz has said of Gjerstads latest musical partner. The American vibesman (also known as one of the finest drummers on the scene today) has worked alongside such greats as Anthony Braxton, and has been described as a precision merchant (The Penguin Guide To Jazz on CD). For this recording he brings his acuteley devised accents and polytonal rhythmic perspectives (Downbeat) to Frodes ever excellent sound world. The recording features much of Nortons fine vibraphone work as well as Frodes excellent and visionary playing. |
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UNDRAVERK: |
| Festival of sound sculpture from reykjavik [FMRCD149-I0704] |
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| This CD is a live recording of the fantastically successful Undraverk Festival concert in Reykjavik organised by master percussionists Steve Hubback, Erik Qvick along with Sif G. The evening was broken up into four parts all recorded hear. The first was by British percussionist Trevor Taylor playing the Baschet Soundsculptures followed by a solo performance by Swedish percussionist Erik Qvick. This was followed by spellbinding performances by Metal Moves featuring Steve with Danish percussionists Tineke Noordkoek and Birgit Lokke playing Hubbacks spellbinding sound sculpture with the evening completed by a mesmerising solo performance by the enigma and trance specialist Z'ev. |
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METAL MOVES |
| ILLUMINATOR II [FMRCD148-i0206] |
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| Steve Hubback and Bertus Fridael ( Sonorous Sculptures created by Steve Hubback)
Music created with fire and anvil. Metal Moves perform unique music with a deep energy and feel, percussion music that is something unto itself. All the instruments and musical sculptures are forged by hand by percussionist, sculptor and bronze/blacksmith Steve Hubback who has invented an amazing collection of gong and cymbal sculptures, a multitude of one off percussion sculptures and mobiles, Iron Mountain Horns, resonating steel sculptures and harps.
Steve Hubback and Bertus Fridael return with the third release from Metal Moves on FMR, where they continue to explore their ever expanding sound pallette of Hubbacks spellbinding sound sculptures. Always a unique experience ‘Illuminator II’ is not to be missed!!
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PLAY BLACKWELL & HIGGINS |
| AMALGAM [FMRCD146-0304] |
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| Trevor Watts (alto), John Stevens (drums), Ron Herman (bass), Jeff Clyne (bass) Watts and Stevens are today considered true legends of the British jazz scene, and this spellbinding 1973 Amalgam release demonstrates there status wonderfully. Dedicated to drummers Eddie Blackwell and Billy Higgins for their contribution to jazz music. Without them, Watts sleeve notes reveal, 'Ornette Coleman's music could not have developed as strongly as it did, even though Ornette was one of a handful of 'pure-rhythm' horn players. Playing with John Stevens and being his best friend for years had helped tremendously in making Watts a more rhythmically aware saxophonist and this re-release is as much a dedication to Stevens' contributions to music as of his heroes Billy Higgins and Eddie Blackwell. This continues FMRs list of excellent re-released Amalgam CDs bringing incredible music to a new audience. |
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DHA |
| Dha: [FMRCD145-J0204] |
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| Paul Brimmer (tenor saxophone), Mehboob Nadeem (sitar), Hanif Khan (tabla), Stan Adler (cello and double bass), Adrian Northove (soprano saxophone) Continuing FMR’s involvement with jazz and Indian musical fusion, Dha features two of the most respected new Indian musicians working in Britain.. Hanif Khan studied tabla at Darlington College with Pandit Shanda Sahai, the renowned tabla virtuosi from the Benares Gharana.He has been active on the London jazz circuit for the last 15 years, while Mehboob Nadeemfrom Bombay and comes from the illustrious Agra Gharana and has been the recipient of many prestigious music scholarships and awards. Their wonderfully seductive rhythms are completed by bandleader Paul Brimmer and Adrian Northove’s beguiling saxophones, and with the flowing double bass of Stan Adler, this is yet more evidence of the fantastic music these two (initially separate) soundworld can create. |
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FRODE GJERSTAD/PAUL HESSION: |
| May DAY [FMRCD144-I0304] |
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| Frode Gjerstad (saxophones), Paul Hession (percussion) Paul Hession is one of the most respected drummer/percussionists in Europe, and Frode Gjerstad has to be commended for selecting him for this new duo recording. Saxophone and drums have often been heard in the freely improvised duo setting (and there is certainly no lack in Frode output in this series), but each musician has enough imagination and talent to push the boundaries beyond the usual terrain. Hessions intricate, rhythmic structure and Gjerstads fluttering lines produce another stunning addition to the excellent duo series created by this unique, unsung hero of the saxworld |
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PETE CORSER |
| BREATHING OUT [FMRCD142-I0204] |
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| Pete Corser (tenor saxophone) Paris based UK saxophonist Pete Corser’s solo recording is an affectionate celebration of, as Bruce Coates’ liner notes indicate, perhaps the most fundamental but most overlooked of the saxophonist’s tools: breath. Featuring six exquisite impov-based compositions Corser explores not just the melodic and rhythmic aspects of circular breathing but also its technique to highlight the other forms of breath that he employs - in effect breath becomes a structural and thematic device within the piece. Breathing Out’s six parts, represent a single work, composed and elaborated from a foundation of intensive technical practice with each composition played and recorded live and as a whole, there are no multi-tracks or loops. |
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PAUL DUNMAL SEXTET: |
| SHOOTERS HILL [FMRCD141-I0104] |
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| Paul Dunmall (tenor saxophone), Paul Rutherford (trombone), Jon Corbett (trumpet), John Adams (guitar), Roberto Bellatalla (bass), Mark Sanders (drums) Paul Dunmall continues his successful relationship with FMR with a classic example of UK group improvisation. Dunmall’s ability to intermingle talented performers and instruments to astoundingly creative effect is ably demonstrated with Shooters Hill, a collection of three improvised pieces recorded all in one day at London’s prestigious Gateway Studio. The tapes, which have been in the possession of the saxophonist since 1998, capture seven magnificent performers in fine form and Paul Dunmall has been eager to share them with an audience ever since. This is wonderful stuff and it is fantastic to see their long awaited release, at last! |
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The glasgow improvising orchestra |
| LIVE IN GLASGOW AND MUNICH [FMRCD139-I0104] |
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| Kenneth Broom (ts), George Burt (g), Matthew Cairns (ct), Richard Craig (fl), Tom Crossley (g), Neil Davidson (g), Peter Dowling (as), Nick Fells (shakuhachi), Robert Henderson (t), Giles Lamb (p), George Lyle (db), Raymond MacDonald (as/ss), Una MacGlone (db), Alexander Neilson (d), Peter Nicholson (cello), Daniel Padden (p, clt & perc), Emma Roche (fl), Matthew Studdert-Kennedy (fl), Evan Parker (ts/ss), Christoph Reiserer (ss), Graeme Wilson (ts) Yet more evidence of Glasgow’s glowing improv scene is here in the form of the first release from The Glasgow Improvising Orchestra. These live recordings performed at The Einstein, Munich (with special guests including the sax maestro Evan Parker) and The Centre for Contemporary Arts, Glasgow is a wonderful example of large scale improv at its best. |
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STEVE HUBBACK - PAAL NIELSEN LOVE |
| Arrows [FMRCD138-1203] |
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| This CD represents the outstanding percussion playing of Britsh Percussionist and Sound Sculpture'ist Steve Hubback playing his own instruments , and the well know Norweigan virtuoso Paal Nielsen Love.
They are both wonderfully sensitive musicians and there duo provides both explosive and dynamic playing to quiet and subtle areas. The recording quality is excellent allowing for the wide dynamic range of their hundreds of instruments to fully come through |
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George Burt/Raymond MacDonald Octet |
| POPCORN [FMRCD136-I1203] |
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| George Burt (guitar), Aileen Campbell (voice, popcorn machine, hairdryer), Lol Coxhill (soprano saxophone), George Lyle (double bass), Nicola MacDonald (voice, melodica), Raymond MacDonald (alto/soprano saxophone), Allan Pendreigh (drums), Christoph Reiserer (soprano saxophone) Scotlands Burt/MacDonald axis continues its partnership with Englands Lol Coxhill on FMR with this larger group offering, featuring special guests Christoph Reiser, doubling with Coxhill on soprano sax, and Aileen Campbell providing voice, hairdryer and popcorn machine (hence the name!). This is another formidable example of truly great group improvisation!! |
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ENSEMBLE Q |
| UNTOLD [FMRCD135-C1103] |
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| Susie Hodder-Williams (flute, alto flute, bass flute), Emma Feilding (oboe, cor anglais), Stuart King (clarinet), José Lluna (horn), Jo Turner (bassoon, contra bassoon), Chris Walters (bass clarinet), Fiona Ritchie (percussion) Quintessence’s new line-up change demanded a new name and ‘Untold’ is the debut recording from the group under their new monica Ensemble Q. The groups choice of material remains the same, concentrating on new compositions by talented younger composers such as Joe Duddell, DSQ’s Gareth Brady, and another wonderful piece from Tansy Davies. Performing: James MacMillan “Untold” (1987, rev. 1999), Philip Cashian “among the bleached stars and suns” (2000), Joe Duddell “Endgame I,II,III” (2001), Gareth Brady “Skara Brae” (2002), Tansy Davies “Fern” (2003). |
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FREDDY STUDER / PIERRE FAVRE: |
| CRISSCROSSING [FMRCD134-I1103] |
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| Fredy Studer (percussion) Pierre Favre (percussion) In the world of percussion two Swiss percussion names stand out. Fredy Studer and Pierre Favre have long careers as drummer and percussionists as well as both working with the Paiste company to produce an incredibly creative range of cymbals, gongs and percussion instruments. Strangely, although friends for over 30 years this is their first recorded duo, but it was worth the wait!! Beautifully recorded in Switzerland this CD will become a classic to all serious drummers and percussionist who will be amazed by their subtlety and creativity as well as spellbinding technique! |
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THE WORKING PARTY: |
| STARTING POINT: ZERO [FMRCD131-I0903] |
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| Scottish based collective The Working Party take their inspiration from John Cage’s theories on improvisation and combine music, performance, singing and Foley techniques to create a uniquely absorbing CD. The Working Party is a Glasgow based art company set up in December 2000, it brings people of different cultures together to make creative things happen, in particular, in Scotland and abroad. The concept for this album was how improvisation can be used in many other ways other than purely musical. All the tracks have been chosen to show contrast in these activities which make this CD highly original and thought provoking. |
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BORAH BERGMAN/ FRODE GJERSTAD: |
| RIVERS IN TIME [FMRCD130-I0803] |
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| Frode Gjerstad (saxophones), Borah Bergman (piano) For this release Borah Bergman (now resident in New York) sits in with Frode Gjerstad on a stunning duo session, the first in the series featuring the piano. Unlike most of the other releases in the series Borah also plays solo and hits a very creative mood, with nods to the memory of Gil Evans and although the two have not played together that often, sparks flew at this session bringing the best out of both players. |
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QUINTESSENCE: |
| DISC ONE [FMRCD128-C0803] |
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| Susanna Hodder-Williams (flute), Rebecca Wood (oboe), Victoria Loram (clarinet), Alison Bryce (horn), Jo Turner (bassoon) Quintessence was formed in 1995 for the first ever wind chamber music course at the Britten-Pears School for Advanced Musical Studies. Since then, the group has performed at many UK festivals including the Aldeburgh Festival and given broadcasts on BBC Radio 3. This CD includes the quintet's first commission from Tansy Davies, the exquisite ‘Pinnacles, Three Movements for Wind Quartet’ (1998). Since then, Quintessence has been active in commissioning mainly young British composers to write new works |
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FRODE GJERSTAD/PETER BROTZMAN |
| SORIA BORIA [FMRCD126-L0603] |
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| Another wonderful duo recording from saxophonist Gjerstad, this time with legendary German saxophonist Peter Brotzmann. |
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TREVOR WATTS' |
| AMALGAM: SAMANNA [FMRCD125-L0503] |
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| Trevor Watts (Alto and percussion), Dave Cole (guitar), Colin McKenzie (bass guitar), Pete Cowling (bass guitar), Liam Genockey (drums) Samanna features four original pieces recorded and originally released in 1977, featuring (at the time) the return of former Amalgam members Dave Cole and Pete Cowling. And it is this use of these two bassists that fires this excellent session, which came at a time of great debate around the jazz/rock fusion: ‘is it valid or not?’ critique, of which this album proves it is. The music on this album is a natural culmination of practising and rehearsing together week after week developing the music of which this CD transcends any one style of playing. |
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PAUL TOWNDROW |
| COLOURS [FMRCD124] |
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| Debut CD from young Scottish saxophonist/ songwriter who is making such a stir at the moment having won many recent competitions such as the Montreux Saxophone competition and the Peter Wittingston awards. A stunningly warm and clean sounds, his music and compositions are dynamic as well as beautiful. |
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