Bafus - Raskin - Shiurba: Fair Shanks Suburbia

Fair Shanks Suburbia emerges as a noteworthy exploration into the avant-garde, where Jon Bafus (Unsilent Majority), Jon Raskin (ROVA), and John Shiurba (Anthony Braxton) orchestrate a sonic journey that transcends conventional musical boundaries. It is a cohesive narrative that delves into the complexities of suburban life through an experimental lens.

From the outset, the trio sets a bold tone with their opener "Rubber Band Rattle Can," a piece that fuses chaotic rhythms with moments of startling clarity. Bafus' percussion is both the backbone and the disruptor, offering a rhythmic foundation that is constantly in flux. Raskin's saxophone lines weave through this percussive landscape with precision and passion amid haunting and melodic content. Shiurba's guitar work is nothing short of visionary, oscillating between abrasive noise and intricate phrasings, often within the same track.

One of the album's standout tracks, "Rubicon Jog" encapsulates the essence of this production. It presents a stark contrast between the mechanical and the organic, reflecting the paradox of nature coexisting with urban sprawl. The track evolves unpredictably, with rumbling breakouts and a sense of perpetual motion.

Lyrically, the music remains abstract, allowing the instruments to speak volumes with a raw framework via unadulterated power. The musicians are contrapuntal wonders throughout abiding by a democratic mindset. Shiurba uses distortion techniques and odd phrasings as Bafus is an unstoppable rhythmic machine. On "Lithe Wires" they delve into noise-shaping sub-motifs, instigated by the drummer's powerful snare rolls, where Raskin improvises within an implied theme as they generate high heat towards the closeout.

Production-wise, this set is meticulously crafted. The mix balances the energy of a live performance with the clarity needed to appreciate the complexity of the compositions. The trio's dynamic range is impressive, with quiet introspections giving way to explosive crescendos that may leave the listener breathless.

The most compelling aspect of the session is its ability to challenge and engage the listener. This is not background music but a demanding listening experience. Raskin injects murmurs through his mouthpiece at the beginning of "Slug Lessons," followed by rebellious interactions, segueing into a free-form jamboree, where the drummer imparts a complex asymmetrical groove that could signal a bizarre tribal rain dance.

In sum, the trio presents a daring and innovative work that redefines the edges of experimental music. It reflects the beauty and chaos of suburban life, captured through a unique sonic lens. For those willing to embark on this unconventional journey, the album offers a rich mosaic of sounds and emotions that linger long after the final note fades.

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