"Mu" is a captivating collaboration between renowned guitarist and producer Barry Cleveland and French experimental musician Richard Pinhas, released on February 27, 2017, via ElevenEleven. This intriguing album blends the genres of new age and industrial rock, offering a unique sonic experience that spans just under an hour. The album features a stellar rhythm section with uber bassist Michael Manring and Brazilian drum master Celso Alberti, adding depth and dynamism to the guitar-driven compositions.
The four-track album begins with "Forgotten Man," setting a contemplative tone that carries through to the vibrant "I Wish I Could Talk In Technicolor." The album's centerpiece, "Zen/Unzen," showcases the improvisational skills of Cleveland and Pinhas, while "Parting Waves" brings the journey to a serene close. "Mu" is not just an exploration of sound but also a meditation on the concept of nothingness, inviting listeners to engage with the music on a deeper level. The album's title, "Mu," is a Zen term that represents the absence of a particular quality or characteristic, reflecting the album's themes of self-awareness and existential reflection. This album is a testament to the creative synergy between Cleveland and Pinhas, offering a rich and thought-provoking listening experience.