Dive into the sonic exploration of "Polyphtong," Jaap Blonk's avant-garde masterpiece released on December 2, 2013, via Kontrans. This album is a testament to Blonk's innovative approach to vocal performance and experimental music. Originally conceived as a quadraphonic piece for live performance, "Polyphtong" was premiered at Stanford University in March 2012 and later reworked into a stereo version in August 2013.
"Polyphtong" is a purely vocal work, with all sounds derived from Jaap Blonk's voice, showcasing his extraordinary vocal range and technique. The album consists of eight parts, each offering a unique journey through Blonk's sonic landscape. With a duration of 46 minutes, this album is a deep dive into the realms of free jazz, avant-garde, and experimental music, all intertwined with spoken word elements.
The album's tracklist is straightforward, featuring "Polyphtong, Pt. 1" through "Polyphtong, Pt. 8," each part building on the previous, creating a cohesive and immersive listening experience. The absence of electronically generated sounds highlights Blonk's vocal prowess, making "Polyphtong" a captivating exploration of the human voice's capabilities.
Jaap Blonk's "Polyphtong" is not just an album; it's an experience that challenges and engages the listener, pushing the boundaries of what vocal music can achieve. Whether you're a fan of experimental music or simply curious about the limits of the human voice, "Polyphtong" is an album that demands attention and repeated listens.
Vinylscout