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The debut LP from RedGreenBlue posits a mesmeric, minimalist extension of Chicago's groove-based improvised music tradition. Over the course of two introverted, side-long pieces, the band patiently crafts hypnotic—yet still dynamic—sonic spaces using languid pulsations, careful shifts in colour, and occasional bursts of virtuosic urgency. It's music that hovers between worlds, unfurling a foundation of almost-ambient weightlessness that's inflected with audible spontaneity and given breadth through rhythm. The expansive result intimates connections to the most atmospheric corners of Miles Davis' electric catalogue, hints at Terry Riley's trance-inducing drones, makes oblique references to dub, and even nods in the direction of Town and Country's DIY chamber music. Yet, all the while it inhabits its very own aesthetic space—a gravity-defying blend of the ethereal and the earthbound that draws the ear in slowly and subliminally.
The quartet of Paul Giallorenzo (synthesizer, pump organ, electronics), Charlie Kirchen (bass), Ryan Packard (drums, electronics) and Ben LaMar Gay (cornet and electronics) first assembled in spring 2017 for a four-week residency at the Burlington, a beloved a hub for exploratory music in Chicago's Logan Square. The End and the Beginning was conceived and workshopped in the first half of the following year and was later recorded live at the Hungry Brain, another notable Chicago venue in July 2018. With half of its membership leaving Chicago—not to mention the active performance schedule that each member keeps—the group has since started operating more as a rotating collective than a fixed ensemble.
credits
released June 3, 2022
Paul Giallorenzo, synthesizer, pump organ, electronics
Charlie Kirchen, bass
Ryan Packard, drums, electronics
Ben LaMar Gay, cornet, electronics (on Side B only)
Recorded at the Hungry Brain, Chicago, July 1st, 2018
Recorded by: David Zuchowski
Mixed and Mastered by Dan Pierson
Artwork & Layout by Dylan Marcus McConnell / Tiny Little Hammers
supported by 214 fans who also own “The End and The Beginning”
This album is such a great mix of free and spiritual jazz with experimental, mood, Eastern elements added in. First cassette tape I have purchased in years and been listening to it all day. Lee Robbins
supported by 212 fans who also own “The End and The Beginning”
Absolutely love this work. Takes me back to Terry Riley’s early string quartets, Meredith Monk’s idiosyncratic rhythms (though in this case long and drawn out), a bit of Eno’s interest in texture and Aphex Twin’s experimentations. Aside from all these personal resonances, its a lovely listen! Jay Hodgson
The first release on Cacophonous Revival, from experimentalist Samuel Goff, uses avant-garde approaches to get at personal narratives. Bandcamp New & Notable Feb 4, 2020
supported by 186 fans who also own “The End and The Beginning”
Simply amazing to hear a new album with Wadada and Ewart!! ...And Reed rounds out this trio beautifully.
Just gave it my first spin. Absolutely magical. jeffrey maurer