The Friction Brothers
Self-titled CD
Abstract on
Black /
Sort of Records
Genre: free improv, free jazz,
experimental jazz
June 25 2008 |
The aptly named Friction Brothers specialize in abrasive
free improv music derived from seemingly everything but the kitchen
sink (though a cleaning brush makes the cut) - among the instruments
employed on this disc, an espresso maker filter, a plastic foosball
figure, and dry ice all show up. Even traditional instruments come
with stipulations - the cello is played by a cheese slicer, the
trumpet and trombone have been reduced to their mouthpieces, and the
piano is played from within. These are familiar hijinks for those
acquainted with the cast behind the madness - The Friction Brothers
are avant-cellist Fred Lonberg-Holm, experimental percussionist
Michael Zerang, and the Flying Luttenbachers'
Michael Colligan. Heavily percussive in sound, this album tends
towards the noisier end of things than your average Peter Brötzmann
record, so these three tracks (all recorded live) will undoubtedly be
limited in appeal to a very particular niche. Still, the shifting,
scraping, and droning of this record makes for a compelling if
challenging listen - moments of silence punctuate the outbursts
of sound and noise, resulting in an unpredictable
sonic experience that keeps you
on the tip of your toes.
80%
Fun Fact: If
this sounds like your bag, keep an eye on Abstract on Black, Sort Of
Records- new imprint devoted to improvised and free music.
Matt Shimmer
[Vitals: 3 tracks, distributed by
the
label,
released 2008] |