2. Tok

Album Description

Dive into the avant-garde world of Otomo Yoshihide with "2. Tok," the second installment in his electrifying trilogy, following the intense "1. GRRR" and preceding the fragmented "3. Ahhh." This album, released in 2003 under the Ambiances Magnétiques label, is a testament to Yoshihide's mastery of free jazz, experimental, and avant-garde genres. Recorded live during a European tour in April 2003, "2. Tok" captures the raw energy and spontaneity of Yoshihide's performances across various cities, including Brest, Nijmegen, Orléans, Lyon, and Geneva.

The album features nine tracks, each named after the city and venue where it was performed, offering a unique snapshot of each concert. From the frenetic energy of "Brest no 2" to the intricate interplay of "Genève no 6," every track showcases Yoshihide's innovative use of turntables and his ability to create complex, engaging soundscapes. The collaboration with Martin Tétreault adds another layer of depth, with the duo's chemistry evident in every performance.

"2. Tok" is not just an album; it's a live document of Otomo Yoshihide's artistic prowess, capturing the essence of his improvisational skills and his ability to push the boundaries of musical expression. Whether you're a fan of experimental music or simply curious about the cutting edge of jazz, "2. Tok" is an essential addition to your collection. With a runtime of just over an hour, it's a journey through the mind of one of the most innovative musicians of our time.

1 jan 2003

2003 Martin Tétreault, Otomo Yoshihide

2005 DAME, Martin Tétreault

About Otomo Yoshihide

Otomo Yoshihide is a pioneering Japanese composer and multi-instrumentalist renowned for his boundary-pushing work across genres such as free jazz, experimental, and avant-garde music. Born in Yokohama in 1959, Otomo's journey into sound began at a young age, influenced by his engineer father, leading him to build his own electronic devices and create sound collages. His career took off in the 1990s with the experimental rock group Ground Zero, where he served as the leader, showcasing his prowess on guitar, turntables, and electronics. Otomo's discography is vast and varied, with over 168 releases to his name, reflecting his versatility and innovative spirit. He has composed for over 100 films, demonstrating his ability to adapt his unique style to different mediums. Whether performing with his Special Big Band or engaging in conducted improvisation, Otomo Yoshihide continues to be a dynamic force in the world of experimental music, constantly exploring new sonic territories and inspiring audiences worldwide.