"The Standard Candle: Live in Bologna" is a captivating live album by Elliott Sharp, featuring the experimental guitar duo of Sharp and Sergio Sorrentino. Released on September 24, 2021, via RMN Classical, this 49-minute collection is a testament to the duo's innovative approach to free jazz, avant-garde, and experimental music. Recorded live at the AngelicA | Centro di Ricerca Musicale - Teatro San Leonardo in Bologna, Italy, on October 30, 2019, the album captures the raw energy and improvisational spirit of their performance.
The album consists of six tracks, each exploring the astronomical concept of 'The Standard Candle.' This theme serves as a unifying thread, connecting the diverse musical landscapes that Sharp and Sorrentino traverse. From the intense and urgent "Allarme" to the delicate and introspective "Thin Ice," each piece showcases the duo's exceptional skill and musical chemistry.
Elliott Sharp, known for his boundary-pushing work in various genres, delivers a powerful performance on electric guitar. His playing is characterized by its intensity, precision, and ability to blend disparate musical elements into a cohesive whole. Sergio Sorrentino, also on electric guitar, complements Sharp's style with his own unique voice, creating a dynamic and engaging dialogue between the two musicians.
"The Standard Candle: Live in Bologna" is a thrilling exploration of the possibilities of experimental guitar music. It's a live album that doesn't just capture a performance but also the spirit of improvisation and collaboration that defines the genre. Whether you're a fan of free jazz, avant-garde music, or simply appreciate innovative guitar playing, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.