Consensus

Album Description

Dive into the avant-garde world of sound with Jaap Blonk's "Consensus," a sprawling, experimental journey released on January 1, 1999, under the ToonDist. label. Spanning an impressive two hours and five minutes, this album is a testament to Blonk's mastery of free jazz, avant-garde, and experimental genres, with a unique blend of spoken word elements that set it apart.

"Consensus" is not just an album; it's an experience, featuring 47 tracks that range from the hauntingly beautiful to the outright bizarre. Blonk's signature vocal manipulations and sound poetry are on full display, creating a sonic landscape that is as challenging as it is rewarding. The album's title track, "Consensus," appears twice, bookending the collection with two distinct takes that frame the diverse sounds within.

The album is divided into several thematic sections, with the "Puy La Gorge," "Reportraits," "Hotel Vergetelheid," and "Vowelogy" series each offering a unique sonic exploration. From the eerie whispers of "Cyril's Nightmare" to the playful absurdity of "Wib Fibby Wap," and the hauntingly beautiful "Please Help Us (We’re So Unhappy)," each track offers a glimpse into Blonk's boundless creativity.

Whether you're a seasoned fan of experimental music or a curious newcomer, "Consensus" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. Jaap Blonk's innovative approach to sound and language makes this album a standout in the world of avant-garde music.

1 jan 1999

1999 Kontrans, part of ToonDist

About Jaap Blonk

Jaap Blonk, born in 1953 in Woerden, Netherlands, is a pioneering figure in the world of avant-garde composition and performance art. A self-taught composer and poet, Blonk's work is deeply influenced by the sound poetry of Kurt Schwitters and the improvisational spirit of American free jazz. His performances are a unique blend of vocal improvisation, sound poetry, and experimental music, often incorporating elements of free jazz and spoken word. Blonk's innovative approach to sound and language has led to the creation of interactive sound poems, such as the Blonk Organ, which he first developed in 1997. With a background in mathematics and musicology, Blonk brings a unique analytical perspective to his artistic practice, resulting in performances that are as intellectually stimulating as they are sonically captivating. His collaborations, including those with Terrie Ex, further showcase his versatility and commitment to pushing the boundaries of musical expression. Whether you're a fan of experimental music or simply curious about the intersection of sound and poetry, Jaap Blonk's work is sure to inspire and intrigue.