MASS Ensemble
Product Description MASS Ensemble weaves a blend of international influences and classical, pop, and jazz music in their self-titled debut album. The nine pieces presented here reflect interpretations of various visual images ranging from new-life to death, triumph to sorrow, and everything in between. In combining their invented long-string instruments and numerous traditional ones, including cello, flute, and percussion, MASS has created something truly original, yet completely accessible to all music lovers looking for something new. Review Simultaneously experimental and classical, a new-age, pop, avant-garde, wavelength in the neighborhood of Laurie Anderson. -- Anchorage Daily News The MASS Ensemble has found the right balance of experimentation, creating melodic pieces that continually delight and surprise. (Chicago Tribune - Feb. 1996) Simultaneously experimental and classical, a new-age, pop, avant-garde, wavelength in the neighborhood of Laurie Anderson. -- Anchorage Daily News - Sept. 1998 The result is a swirling visual track that echoes the heyday of the Fillmore, and music that sounds Baroque sometimes, anthemic at others -- Chicago Tribune About the Artist Formed in 1994, MASS is an ensemble of musicians, dancers, and visual artists who combine their talents to create a sonic and visual performance. The Close Long Bow (a 25-foot stringed sculpture/ instrument), drum sculpture, and cello provide the landscape for the dancers and musicians to interact, creating a dynamic and striking event. The Long Bows lend a fluid / dynamic physicality to the kinetic elements of the performance. Choreography is created through the act of playing on and around the giant sculptural instruments. The instruments and performers meld together to allow the audience to experience the music on several different levels. The intricate symphonic sounds of the Long Bows are akin to an electronic harp or violin. The combination of Cello, flute, sculptural drums, castanets, movement / dance, and other invented instruments, create an eclectic experience. The music becomes a tonal canvas that the performers activate through movement. The MASS Ensemble is a unique musical performance. An eclectic mix of contemporary classical, eastern music, world music, flamenco, primal rhythms, ethnic folk music, Baroque and Renaissance music, along with ambient music influences the group. The compositions explore tonal and melodic dynamics, which reference classical genres and music from different cultures. MASS explores globally conscious themes within their work: offering the audience a poetic experience that relates to the overall well being of the global community. See more
Mass Ensemble   Format: Audio CD
{"Package Dimensions": "5.55 x 4.97 x 0.54 inches; 2.83 Ounces", "Original Release Date": "1998", "Date First Available": "January 19, 2007", "Number of discs": "1"}