Borbetomagus - Live In Allentown [Agaric Records - 2008]Borbetomagus are a boiling pot of jazz, noise, avant-rock, electroincs and improv. This is a reissue of one of their most loved and respected albums, original recorded live on Halloween 1986, here the original issued 32 minute set is joined by an extra equal manic 21 minute set. At first their sound just seems like a manic and frenzied sonic attack using a mix of electronics, double sax, guitar and bass. But by the second play through you hear a demented, kind of da da logic appearing & there are some structures and often harmonic/ atmospheric passages appearing here and there under the squealing Saxes and guitar/ bass shorting. At some points in the chaos one sax will harmonizers with the droning sleazed electronics, or start up a wonky march with the guitar and bass in damned partnership. This is improvised music that’s blooded, demented and completely un- highbrow meaning this will appeal both to fans of violent improv and down ‘n’ dirt noise too. Of the two tracks the first already issued track is the most manic face ripping dense affair with the second track not far behind. It has calmer more bizarre and less dense moments on display with also the odd plan rock ‘n’ roll riff surfacing here and there, before been swallowed by the boiling mess again. But both tracks are rewarding, violent and highly re-playable, with new each run through offer up a new devilish sonic points of interest on the tracks dammed maps. Hands down a great and manic ride that still sounds violent, deranged and compelling, Hell it could have been recorded yesterday not 20 some years back. A must buy for noise, improv fans and those looking for something brutal, yet playful. To find out more about the truly wonderfully Borbetomagus and buy direct jump to here Roger Batty
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