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November 22, 2008

Impressions on Matthew Herbert Big Band

Matthew Herbert is perhaps the epitomy of the eccentric english guy, his bulging head struggling to contain his eclectic taste and widescreen inventiveness.

Last night special performance of his big band outfit was unique in having the backing of  volunteer fifty choir from Goldsmith, assembled as on their new album for this concert for the London Jazz Festival. 50 or more, they came with enthusiasm. There was just enough mishaps and unpolished energy to play it raw and real. Each piece started almost incongruously, the brass, the samples, booming voice, the crowd of hands and bobbing heads. This surprising story unfolds before you with strass and sounds. Huge waves of sounds crashing in with jokes and laughter. Standing joy for the audience. Pure bliss.

There's Me and There's You. I only have some video from the 2003 album. But don't listen to my rambles: get hold of the album, or better get out and see them live.


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October 20, 2008

The original is unfaithful to the translation.

This is one of perhaps the most beautiful quotes from Jorge Luis Borges, and certainly my favourite. There is an art to remixing a tune or covering a song that I cannot fully explain or totally fathom. But I feel like any attempt should try to make the quote above sound true.

The remix below of the song by Nina Simone is an honest coup d'essai. I hope you like it too :)

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October 11, 2008

Notes from Cinematic Orchestra

I went to the concert of the Cinematic Orchestra last night. The Roundhouse was buzzing with tons of people inside and out, audible expectations running high. All ready for two sets: "Man with a movie camera" and "Ma Fleur".

First part is Man with a Movie Camera is a russian 1929 experimental movie, silent black&white job with tons of ideas and surprises packed in. The music of the Cinematic tickles the pictures, the play with movie techniques on the screen is mirrored in the soundpieces. I loved it even more live than on the album: the visual element makes the experience complete.

Second part of the show was tunes from the new album "Ma Fleur". I don't really know that album well and definitely want to check it out. "Petit bemol": a little annoyance from the musicians at some random loud whistling projected from the crowd mid-songs. Not sure if I was annoyed myself at the unecessary rudeness (it's not a rock concert guys!), or if I was just being jealous at some seriously impressive two-finger-in-the-mouth whistles :)

Heidi Vogel (vocals) came on in the second part, taxi issues apparently. Her presence was warm in contrast to the rest of the band: her voice mirroring the playing lights on the wood and pillars of the grand old building. My favourite of the night? All that you give: it is one of these great rolling song with a delicate sprinkle of pinched strings. Below is the official video of this tune with Fontella Bass on vocals, the sixties diva of Rescue Me fame.

Do you like it? What other music does this song makes you think of?

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Filed under  //   concert   electro-jazz   orchestra  

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