"A Mountain Doesn't Know It's Tall" is a captivating collaboration between Fred Frith and Ikue Mori, released in 2015 on Intakt Records. This album is a testament to the duo's improvisational prowess, blending avant-garde, free jazz, experimental, and even tango elements into a cohesive and intriguing 42-minute journey. Recorded in January 2015 at Jankowski Sound Fabrik in Esslingen, Germany, the album features 15 tracks that reflect the playful, poetic, and mysterious interplay between Frith and Mori.
The album's title encapsulates the spirit of the music, which is both grounded and ethereal, much like the natural phenomenon it references. Fred Frith, known for his innovative approach to guitar and composition, and Ikue Mori, a pioneer in electronic music and turntablism, create a unique sonic landscape that is both familiar and otherworldly. The tracks, ranging from the contemplative "Bodaishin" to the energetic "The Biggest Idiots," showcase the duo's versatility and their ability to push the boundaries of their respective genres.
The recording process itself is a story of dedication and craftsmanship. Mixed over several years, with the majority completed in August 2020, the album benefits from the duo's long-standing musical relationship and their shared history with filmmaker Werner Penzel, for whom the music was originally composed. The result is an album that is as much a conversation between two master musicians as it is a collection of songs.
" A Mountain Doesn't Know It's Tall" is not just an album of experimental music; it is a document of a creative partnership that spans decades and genres. Whether you're a fan of Fred Frith's guitar work, Ikue Mori's electronic compositions, or simply curious about the intersection of avant-garde and jazz, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
Vinylscout