Animal Behavior

Album Description

Alvin Curran's 1995 release, 'Animal Behavior', is a sonic masterpiece that showcases the artist's innovative and unpredictable approach to music. As a persistent innovator in the new music world, Curran brings his unique blend of sharp wit, timeless lyricism, and sonic fireworks to the forefront. With a background that includes studying under the renowned Elliott Carter at Yale and co-founding the legendary Musica Elettronica Viva, Curran's expertise is undeniable.

This avant-garde, free jazz, and experimental album, released on the Tzadik label, features a diverse range of tracks, including the thought-provoking 'Why Is This Night Different Than All Other Nights' and the titular 'Animal Behavior'. With a duration of 50 minutes, the album takes the listener on a journey through the realms of minimalism and beyond.

As a composer who has worked with notable musicians such as Ursula Oppens, Curran's 'Animal Behavior' is a testament to his skill and creativity. The album's release in 1995 marked a significant milestone in Curran's career, and its influence can still be felt today. With its unique blend of genres and styles, 'Animal Behavior' is an essential listen for fans of experimental and avant-garde music. Alvin Curran's innovative spirit and mastery of his craft make this album a must-hear experience.

January 1, 1995

1995 Tzadik

About Alvin Curran

Alvin Curran, born in Providence, Rhode Island, is a pioneering American composer and sound artist who has been a seminal figure in experimental music since the late 1960s. Known for his innovative use of electronics and environmental found sounds, Curran's work spans a wide range of genres, including avant-garde, free jazz, and minimalism. He co-founded the influential group Musica Elettronica Viva with Frederic Rzewski and Richard Teitelbaum, and his compositions often blend lyricism with chaos, structure with indeterminacy. Curran's extensive career includes creating sound installations, solo performances, and music for various ensembles. He has taught at prestigious institutions such as Mills College and the Accademia Nazionale d'Arte Drammatica in Rome, where he currently resides and continues to inspire with his eclectic and adventurous approach to music.