Fred Frith, the avant-garde maestro, presents "Stone, Brick, Glass, Wood, Wire," a captivating exploration of sound released on May 3, 2013, under the label I dischi di angelica. This album is a testament to Frith's innovative spirit, blending genres such as avant-garde, free jazz, experimental, and even tango into a cohesive and intriguing sonic journey.
Spanning nearly two hours, the album is a sprawling landscape of improvisation and composition, featuring tracks like "Goongerah," "Tokyo," and "Firewood, Screen." Frith's mastery of his instruments shines through in pieces like "Dry Stone I" and "Dry Stone II," showcasing his ability to create intricate textures and rhythms. The album's title track, "Stone, Brick, Glass, Wood, Wire," encapsulates the diverse sonic palette Frith employs, from the raw, organic sounds of "Firewood 1" and "Firewood 2" to the more structured and rhythmic pieces like "Bricks For Six" and "Vlissingen."
Frith's collaborative spirit is evident in tracks like "Improvisation-Roof" and "Improvisation / Tokyo - Extract," where he engages in spontaneous musical conversations. The album also includes extracts from larger works, such as "High Tension - Extract" and "Skylight V - Extract," offering a glimpse into Frith's broader musical vision.
"Stone, Brick, Glass, Wood, Wire" is not just an album; it's a testament to Fred Frith's enduring influence and innovation in the world of experimental music. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.