This latest Martin Archer and Jan Todd collaboration is an intriguing proposition in that they attempt to emulate, by way of sound, the images of certain classic works of art.
With just the two of them on an array of esoteric instruments including electric pencil sharpener, frog guiro, saxello and waterphone, they cover the most extraordinary textural ground and encompass works from the likes of Kandinsky, Pollock, Picasso and Monet. A clear labour of love, the pair bounced ideas backwards and forwards, editing down until twelve diverse and thought-provoking pieces emerged.
Ancient and modern converge on this album with electronic treatments engaging with the acoustic instrumentation and generally they move gently together. Jan’s wordless voice on the opener “Concentric” interweaves with the instruments as they are chosen and introduced. “Five Words”, which started the whole process off, is atmospheric and sparse; the odd digital effect and voice a curious combination but one that works. The use of melodica is a treat and there is a real closeness, a sense of intimacy which runs through the album.
Where some tracks are a little reticent, others definitely have energy and momentum and the voice becomes stronger for that; but the sequencing keeps us guessing as to how the artworks will have affected the players. “Matamua” is a more speculative collection of sounds, dreamy vocal joined by joyful saxello and proggy synth-bass, while the roiling electronic backdrop of “Soleil Levant”, with its harp accompaniment, is suffused with insinuation. The impressionistic wash also contains an air of tension; but these are the sensations that art can induce in the viewer and Martin and Jan have done well to pass these on to the listener. “Danseuses” is diffuse, its reverbed steel pan setting it awash in a sea of shimmering lightness, while the electronic fireworks of “Self Portrait” soar through the stratosphere, its contrails drifting and collapsing. There is much movement here and much light and shade; in fact everything you could want from a trip around an art gallery, moving from the impending drama of “La Jatte” to the slow journey through a darkening desert of “Hammamet”.Private View is a carefully curated and beautifully produced series of pieces that are lovely to listen to; but it is also interesting to find images of the artworks and see whether your mind’s eye conjures up similar impressions.
-Mr Olivetti-
