Larry Polansky
Four-Voice Canons
15 imaginative variations in the realm of canon, a type of composition where the writer gradually adds layers of musical material, creating density, complexity and texture. “Anna Canon” features Polansky’s 3 year old daughter’s voice processed through a pc. This delightful cut prompted my cat to come over to the right speaker and cock her head at it in Nipper fashion. It’s the sound of elemental spirits having fun and one of the best pieces I’ve heard from anyone in years. “#4” for marimba, played by William Winant, gradually becomes more rhythmically rich as it develops, sounding like more-accessible Conlon Nancarrow. “Nerve Canon” might be called the Procession of the Pachyderm Machines because of its elephantine assuredness. Elsewhere, Anthony Braxton and a field recording of frogs is laugh out loud funny, something all too rare in New Music. Only a couple of pieces come off as dry and academic. Almost all are intriguing and pleasurable. Hats way off to the very inventive Polansky.
Cold Blue
CB 0011
Richard Grooms