"Traces of Speech" is a captivating journey into the avant-garde, where Jaap Blonk's unique vocal prowess meets experimental soundscapes. Released on April 10, 2014, under the Kontrans label, this album is a testament to Blonk's innovative approach to free jazz and experimental music. With a runtime of 58 minutes, the album features seven tracks that blend spoken word with avant-garde and experimental elements, creating a sonic experience that is as thought-provoking as it is sonically rich.
The album's conceptual foundation is as intriguing as its sound. Blonk created the texts by feeding drawings into optical character recognition software, then transformed these texts into sounds by importing the drawings into audio software. This unique methodology results in a harmonic, rhythmic, and melodic language that is distinctly Blonk's own. His powerful stage presence and childlike freedom in improvisation are evident throughout, showcasing his keen grasp of structure and his ability to push the boundaries of vocal performance.
Each track on "Traces of Speech" offers a different facet of Blonk's artistic vision. From the provocative "Gossip of Truth" to the introspective "Plea for Proof," the album explores themes of communication, perception, and the blurred lines between them. Blonk's extended vocal techniques, honed through years of performance and experimentation, are on full display, making this album a standout in the realm of experimental music.
For fans of free jazz, avant-garde, and experimental music, "Traces of Speech" is an essential addition to any collection. Jaap Blonk's innovative approach to sound and text makes this album a unique and compelling listen, showcasing his mastery of vocal improvisation and his ability to create a distinctive sonic landscape.
Vinylscout