Ecstatic Volutions in a Neon Haze
Christopher Adler
Innova Records, 2007
Christopher Adler relishes the ecstasy of the groove, and he finds it everywhere. From the algorithmic severity of the percussion solo “Signals Intelligence” to the ecstasy of free improvisation bursting from “I Want to Believe,” Adler distills a relentless rhythmic drive through his passions for minimalism, mathematics and Southeast Asian traditions.
This recording documents five of Adler’s newest compositions.
“Iris” is a tightly woven fabric of metrical com- plexity informed by the structures of Southeast Asian ensemble musics. “Liber Pulveris” freezes the fire of improvisation into frighteningly complex notation. And “Ecstatic Volutions in a Neon Haze” is a tour de force of chamber-funk.
These five works are performed by intrepid performers from across the United States. The bicoastal ensemble NOISE includes champions of new music Lisa Cella (flute) and Colin McAllister (guitar), red fish blue fish veteran Morris Palter (percussion) and complexity savant Franklin Cox (cello). Chicago-based percussionist Robert Dillon and Colin McAllister perform solos, and, on piano, Adler joins the chamber rock group pulsoptional from North Carolina for the title track, and multi-instrumentalist Alan Lechusza to tackle the epic composition “I Want to Believe.”
Christopher Adler’s artistry as composer, performer and improviser has been heard from Carnegie Hall, to San Diego jazz bars and rural Thai villages. His compositions are played by groups such as the Silk Road Ensemble and red fish blue fish and have been released on Tzadik and Art of the States. As pianist and composer-in-residence with NOISE, he co-organizes the soundON Festival of Modern Music and champions new music from around the world. Since 2000 he has performed and recorded fearless free improvisation in the Alan Lechusza/Christopher Adler Duo, and he is an Associate Professor of Music at the University of San Diego.