Digital Wildlife

Album Description

"Digital Wildlife," released on March 1, 2015, is a captivating exploration into the avant-garde and experimental realms of music, crafted by the innovative guitarist and composer Fred Frith. This album, released under the Winter and Winter label, is a testament to Frith's eclectic and inventive approach to music, blending elements of free jazz, tango, and abstract rock into a cohesive and intriguing sonic landscape.

The album features five tracks: "Digital Wildlife," "Image in and Atom," "The Prisoners' Dilemma," "Touch I Risk," and "Close to Home." Each piece is a multilayered collage of sounds, drawing from live improvisations and meticulously mixed into a densely overlapping tapestry of machine music. Fred Frith's heavily distorted electric guitar weaves through the compositions, creating a unique blend of chamber-classical, abstract rock, and folk influences.

"Digital Wildlife" is a collaborative effort, with contributions from Miya Masaoka on koto and electronics, Larry Ochs on tenor and soprano saxophone, and Joan Jeanrenaud. The album's production involves a team of skilled engineers and producers, including Peter Hardt, Myles Boisen, and Adrian von Ripka, ensuring a high-quality listening experience.

The album has garnered critical acclaim, with Allmusic awarding it 3½ stars and JazzTimes praising its innovative and eclectic nature. Fans of progressive rock and experimental music will find "Digital Wildlife" to be a compelling addition to their collection, showcasing Fred Frith's enduring legacy in contemporary music.

1 mrt 2015

2015 Winter and Winter

About Fred Frith

Fred Frith is a pioneering force in the world of experimental and avant-garde music, renowned for his innovative approach to the guitar and his prolific collaborations across diverse genres. Born in England, Frith's musical journey began with classical violin training, but it was his encounter with The Shadows that led him to the guitar and a lifelong passion for pushing musical boundaries. As a founding member of the avant-rock group Henry Cow, Frith first gained attention for his unique guitar work and compositional prowess. His career has since spanned numerous influential groups like Art Bears, Massacre, and Skeleton Crew, and collaborations with legends such as Robert Wyatt, John Zorn, and Brian Eno.

Frith's discography is a testament to his versatility and innovation, encompassing solo works, ensemble compositions, and productions for other artists. His compositions, such as "Traffic Continues" and "Freedom in Fragments," showcase his ability to blend experimental techniques with traditional forms. Whether performing solo guitar sets, composing for orchestras, or collaborating with artists from various musical backgrounds, Fred Frith continues to inspire and challenge listeners with his distinctive and eclectic musical vision.