Eugene Chadbourne's "Vol. 2: Solo Acoustic Guitar" is a captivating journey into the avant-garde and free jazz realms, released in January 1976 under Rastascan Records. This album showcases Chadbourne's innovative approach to the acoustic guitar, featuring a blend of traditional and prepared guitars, along with an array of unconventional instruments like toys, sirens, and plastic horns. The young Calgary-based guitarist, known for his eclectic tastes and prolific output, delivers an hour and thirteen minutes of experimental sounds that defy conventional genres.
The album's tracklist is a tribute to various influences and individuals, with each piece dedicated to someone significant in Chadbourne's life or musical journey. From the introspective "That's All Water Under the Bridge" to the energetic "Rocket" and the haunting "Father - You Opened," Chadbourne's compositions are as diverse as they are engaging. The live track "Making It Go Away" offers a glimpse into his dynamic performance style, while "Mao Tse Tung Did Not Have to Deal With People Who Were Watching Seven Hours of Television Every Day" reflects his penchant for provocative titles and themes.
Chadbourne's playing is explicitly idiomatic, rooted in diversity and difference, making "Vol. 2: Solo Acoustic Guitar" a testament to his unique artistic vision. Whether you're a seasoned fan of free jazz or a curious newcomer to the avant-garde, this album promises an intriguing exploration of sound and texture.
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