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90
Album Review

ICP Orchestra: East of the Sun

Read "East of the Sun" reviewed by Glenn Astarita


The Holland-based Instant Composers Pool (ICP) Orchestra has amassed 51 albums since its inception in 1967 and due to health-related issues, legendary co-founder, pianist Misha Mengelberg is unable to perform. But guest artist, pianist Guus Janseen duly integrates his artistry into the orchestra's distinct constitution. And of course inimitable drummer Han Bennink helps support and steer the large ensemble through its perpetually moving currents amid its customary unpredictability and topsy-turvy discourses. As surmised, the artists interconnect free jazz improvisation, folk ...

196
Album Review

ICP Orchestra: Aan & Uit

Read "Aan & Uit" reviewed by John Kelman


The Instant Composers Pool, or ICP Orchestra, is a Dutch collective that, after emerging in the ‘70s with a number of albums over a ten-year period only to then more or less disappear, has re-emerged over the past five years with a number of recordings for its own ICP label. Schizophrenic at the best of times, the ensemble’s early history was characterized by a deep rift between originating members pianist Misha Mengelberg, who wanted to explore the concept of “instant ...

186
Album Review

ICP Orchestra: Oh, My Dog

Read "Oh, My Dog" reviewed by Mark Corroto


The Amsterdam based ICP Orchestra (meaning improvisation defined as an “instant composing pool”) can best be described to Americans as Carl Stalling directs the Duke Ellington Orchestra playing chamber music. Pianist Misha Mengelberg and drummer Han Bennink lead their brand of instant composing. Mengelberg, a master of the music of both Herbie Nichols and Thelonious Monk, is the poster-child for the Dutch creative scene. He prefers odd angular melodies and playing spin-the-dial for differing styles. Drummer Han Bennink seems to ...


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