Kaja Draksler & Terrie Ex - The Swim [Terp Records]

Out on the circuit via the Dutch imprint Terp Records since January 17th, 2k20 is "The Swim", the live recorded conjunctional two track album by classically trained pianist and composer Kaja Draksler and long-standing Punk / Improv visionary Terrie Ex which was recorded live at Cafe Oto / London in June, 2k18. Starting from a very minimalist angle living off of careful, sometimes even tender manipulations of their respective instruments and sound sources the 35+ minutes spanning main piece "Strel" slowly introduces screeching phrases alongside prepared piano figures and swinging, hard hitting Jazz references alongside partly tortured guitar strings before transforming into what is to be described as endless, intricate and experimental conversations of two musical masters, an unconventional call-and-response of sorts going from extremely tense moments into seemingly tender, and somewhat emotional, romantic even, episodes within a blink of an eye whereas the follow up "Butterfly" presents experimentalism on a slighty more lighthearted, yet more dramatic and expressive note for those who like to dig deep into the sonic realms of the live improv scene.

Album artwork on Instagram!