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Newband

Microtonal works by Partch, Cage, LaBarbara, Drummond

Label: Mode

Format: CD

Genre: Experimental

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The debut recording of Newband, an ensemble specializing in microtonal music and focused around a unique instrument, the zoomoozophone. Invented by Dean Drummond (who was a student of Harry Partch and played in his legendary Gate 5 ensemble), the zoomoozophone looks somewhat like a marimba withwith aluminum tubes-except that it is about 20 feet long and consists of 129 tubes tuned to a 31-note scale in just-intonation.  For the purposes of these recordings, the basic four-piece group, which also includes flautist, Stefani Starin, was augmented from time to time, depending on the work. Partch's "Two Studies on Ancient Greek Scales" provides an inviting introduction to this distinctive textural universe. Cage's "Haikai for Flute and Zoomoozophone" is probably the most austere thing here. Joan La Barbara's "Silent Scroll" features a string bass mimicking and answering her trills, screeches, and melodic statements. Drummond's own work stands up well in this heady company; "Then or Never," in particular, is a rewarding piece, reminiscent in places of Takemitsu. For those who like their musical moments to hang around for awhile before fading away into the ether, this disc offers a pleasing, intriguing listen.
Details
Cat. number: mode 018
Year: 2013