"Le Stanze" is the fifth solo album by Norwegian percussionist and experimental artist Ingar Zach, released on October 7, 2016, under the Sofa label. This captivating work delves into the realms of free jazz, experimental, and avant-garde music, showcasing Zach's mastery of percussion and electronic sources.
Recorded between 2014 and January 2015 at M.O.S. Soundlab in Madrid, "Le Stanze" is a collection of four intricate pieces that exploit the diverse sounds at the intersection of expanded percussion and electronic experimentation. The album's title, which translates to "The Rooms" in English, hints at the varied sonic spaces Zach explores throughout the record.
The album opens with "La Bugia Dello Specchio" (The Lie of the Mirror), a short, enigmatic piece that sets the stage for the journey ahead. This is followed by the expansive "Il Battito Del Vichingo" (The Viking's Beat), a 15-minute exploration of rhythm and texture that showcases Zach's improvisational skills. The third track, "L'inno Dell' Oscurità" (The Hymn of Darkness), delves into darker, more atmospheric territories, while the final piece, "È Solitudine" (It Is Solitude), brings the album to a contemplative close.
With a duration of just 37 minutes, "Le Stanze" is a concise yet profound exploration of sound and space. Zach's innovative approach to percussion and electronics makes this album a standout in his discography and a compelling listen for fans of experimental and avant-garde music.