Fred Frith, a veteran of the avant-garde and experimental music scenes, presents "Digital Wildlife," a captivating album that defies easy categorization. Released in 2015 under the Winter and Winter label, this album is a testament to Frith's enduring innovation and musical curiosity. Collaborating with the ensemble Maybe Monday, Frith weaves together a tapestry of sounds that span genres from free jazz and experimental to avant-garde and even tango.
"Digital Wildlife" is a sonic journey that shifts abruptly and seamlessly, creating a densely layered and multifaceted listening experience. The album features five tracks, each a unique exploration of sound and texture. From the intricate compositions of "Digital Wildlife" and "Image in an Atom" to the haunting melodies of "The Prisoners' Dilemma," every piece showcases the collective's mastery of improvisation and composition.
The instrumentation is as eclectic as the music itself, with Frith on electric guitar, Miya Masaoka on koto and electronics, Larry Ochs on tenor and soprano saxophone, and Joan Jeanrenaud on cello. This diverse lineup contributes to the album's rich sonic palette, where classical, rock, and folk elements coexist in a harmonious blend.
Critics have praised "Digital Wildlife" for its complexity and depth. Aaron Steinberg of JazzTimes notes that the album can sound like chamber-classical, abstract rock, or folk at any given moment, reflecting Frith's ability to transcend traditional musical boundaries. With a duration of just under 50 minutes, this album is a concise yet profound exploration of sound, making it an essential addition to any discerning music lover's collection.
Vinylscout