|
Gringo Blaster
selected instrumental work by Michael Kowalski, 1974-92 (EIN008/CD)
The first major release from composer-pianist Michael Kowalski, a pioneer
in the application of artificial intelligence to composition and one
of the New York's most interesting exponents of pop/classical mixology
and elegant collage. In "Vapor Trails" and "Tracks" high-powered ensembles
of percussionists, saxophonists, and keyboard players from the University
of Michigan join forces in swinging explorations of musical asymmetry
that call to mind J.S. Bach, Lalo Schifrin, and Ornette Coleman. With
the hairpin turns of "Fakebook" and "Piano Lesson", Kowalski the pianist
recasts the gestural language of Chopin and Debussy into formats that
have as much to do with cartoon soundtracks as they do with high Romanticism.
The title cut, "Gringo Blaster", brings together the diverse talents
of percussionists Mark Holen and Andy Drelles, plus trombonist Jim Staley
in a crazily refracted take on the mambo, merengue, hip-hop, tango,
funeral march, and Brazilian two-step. Definitely worth a serious listen.
" . . . one of the year's most enjoyable recordings . . . the title
cut 'Gringo Blaster' is truly one of the most incredible pieces of music
in the digital domain this year." Dwight Loop, The Sun (Santa Fe, NM)
" . . . here's Chopin, here's Cage, here's Cecil Taylor, all in one
extended phrase." John Baxter, Option
|
 |