Friday, March 24, 2006

the exchange session

In early 2005 two guys from two generations and two different scenes came together and something magic happened. I would never expect a duo between a drummer and laptop to be so spiritual, but it is. Three long improvisations captured live in studio, uncut, one-take, start to finish. The document is in two parts, with Exchange Session - Volume 1 out now via the always tasty Domino.

Steve Reid is well heard but unknown by name. You've heard his drumming on everything from James Brown's Popcorn to Dancing in the Street by Martha and the Vandellas to Fela Kuti's Africa One to a long stint in the Sun Ra Arkestra and Miles Davis. His style is heavily influenced by African rhythms and modal harmonics of twelve tone explorations of John Coltrane. Kieran is better known under his current electronic moniker, Four Tet or previously with Fridge. Now together, they have a strikingly fresh sound that is equal parts Nonesuch Explorer and Columbia-Princeton Electronic Music Center, all the while remaining modern and both jazzy and electronic at the same time. A tall order indeed. Volume 2 comes out later this year. Also be sure to check out the Steve Reid Ensemble's Spirit Walk which also features Kieren with a larger group and just as breathtaking results.

Kieran Hebden & Steve Reid - Morning Prayer

3 Comments:

At 2:57 PM, Blogger Andrew Sherman said...

This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

 
At 3:02 PM, Blogger heath said...

sorry try again!

 
At 3:11 PM, Blogger Andrew Sherman said...

What a beautiful noise! Thanks

 

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