Home » Jazz Musicians » Orion Tango

Orion Tango

A tango is all about moving smoothly as one with your partner. Orion Tango's tango is all about doing the same thing between minds and instruments. The newest project from Philadelphia's genre-defying 1k Recordings label consists of guitarist Tim Motzer, bassist Barry Meehan and drummer Jeremy Carlstedt: a team of premier musicians who've played together in various settings in the past, but never in this trio configuration before. Their self-titled debut shows both the familiarity of longtime collaborators and the eagerness of a fresh outfit just discovering what it can do.

Drawing on the experimental spirit of Krautrock as much as the deep rhythmic stew of urban dub, offering infectious power- rock grooves and occasional noise on the edge of chaos, Orion Tango is a thick slice of heavy power-trio improv as this crew does it best. It's a treat for familiar 1k listeners who love the forward-thinking eclecticism of Base3 or Global Illage, newcomers looking for one of the most exciting under-the-radar discoveries of the season, or just anyone with adventurous ears. Catch them onstage this fall and be ready for anything.

Tim Motzer is known for his distinct textural guitar voice utilizing looping, bowing, electronics, and prepared techniques. After 17 years of world touring, stunning collaborations, and over 70 albums of credits this Philadelphia-based guitarist continues to traverse manifold territories in music He has collaborated with musical luminaries: David Sylvian, Burnt Friedman, drummer Jaki Liebezeit of CAN, Ursula Rucker, King Britt, Jamaaladeen Tacuma, Pat Mastelotto of King Crimson, Markus Reuter, and jazz guitar virtuoso Kurt Rosenwinkel among many others. As a leader, his projects include Orion Tango, RMS (with Julie Slick & Tobias Ralph), Goldbug (featuring Theo Travis), Instant Takemitsu (with Dino J.A. Deane), Global illage, Base3, Nucultures, and Tim Motzer SOLO. He releases his genre-defying solo work and collaborations on his 1k Recordings imprint and webcasts sessions from his studio on 1ksessions.com. He composes for film and video, and scores for international choreographers in the world of modern dance.

New York City-based drummer/songwriter/vocalist Jeremy Carlstedt has performed with some of the most forward thinking artists in jazz, rock, electronic and world music. As a protege of the legendary Chico Hamilton, Jeremy has absorbed music history in the best possible classroom: on the bandstand as a member of Hamilton’s group Euphoria as well as Vincent Chancey’s Phat Chance, Brian Settles and Central Union, and collaborations with guitarist Tim Motzer, which have put him on some of the world’s most prestigious stages including, The Kennedy Center, Lincoln Center, Newport Jazz Festival, Syracuse Jazz Festival and Roulette. Jeremy’s first solo recording, ‘When I Wake Up’ , released in October 2012, is an art-rock EP featuring his drumming, vocals and compositions.ming His new album ‘Stars Are Far’ features his band (Brian Settles, Tim Motzer, Eric Wheeler, and Carlstedt) in a compositional and improvisational free jazz setting.

Read more

Tags

1
Album Review

Orion Tango: The Apple Of No

Read "The Apple Of No" reviewed by Geno Thackara


In times as strange and uncertain as ever, Orion Tango prefers to remember that there are some silver linings we can count on and “the world doesn't have to go this way," as guitarist Tim Motzer explains it. One steady constant of course is the power of music--edge-of-seat improvisation is this power trio's specialty, and the allure of discovery is one reassuring reminder that “we live with hope." All three members are longtime friends and collaborators ready to jump out ...

1
Live From Philadelphia

Orion Tango at Kung Fu Necktie

Read "Orion Tango at Kung Fu Necktie" reviewed by Geno Thackara


Orion TangoKung Fu Necktiejny: Philadelphia, PAJune 6, 2017 It's unclear what formal apparel has to do with the martial arts, or what either one has to do with live music for that matter, but nevermind. Adventurous musical acts are always welcome at Kung Fu Necktie as much as open-eared listeners are. The wood-paneled corner bar in northeast Philadelphia's Fishtown neighborhood is a cozy space with an inviting local-hangout atmosphere and plenty of character. On this ...

Read more articles

Photos

Music

Videos

Get more of a good thing!

Our weekly newsletter highlights our top stories, our special offers, and upcoming jazz events near you.