Aa push the limits of experimental music on gAame
Hailing from Brooklyn, New York, the rambunctious percussion-driven quartet known as Aa (Big A little a) plays a brand of experimental-drum-electronica-art-whatever that is sure to challenge even the most experienced critic and connoisseur. Propelled by three (sometimes four) drummers, a synth or two and two vocalists, one can only imagine the sound created by such a potent yet obscure combination. However you want to categorize this noisy unpredictable group, there is no denying these seven gentlemen are stretching the boundaries of avant-garde music on gAame.
Self-described as experimental/progressive house, the band’s main focus is first and foremost percussion, and thus the energy of the record becomes immediately apparent. An experiment in rhythm to be sure, gAame is a swirling beat-heavy mixture that one could envision as the background for a psychedelic tribal drum-rave. Although probably best experienced live, as can be seen on the accompanying DVD, gAame is still an intriguing yet peculiar listen on record. Drums of all kinds, mariachis, maracas, cymbals, electronic oscillations and primal chants and wails all converge together to form the most furious combination heard this side of a drum circle. Despite the convoluted nature in which they are delivered, there are lyrics amidst all the hooting and hollering (bull-horns included), though they take a backseat to the wide array of percussion and electronic stimuli.
Without a doubt, Aa is making bombastic and extremely progressive music sure to leave the listener slightly taken aback but strangely fascinated. Though unlike most anything else out there, gAame makes us wonder when a discernable melody is going to emerge, only to realize one never really does. Though a very unusual and creative album (and group for that matter), gAame in the end is a slightly tricky endeavor. One can’t help but feel a little bewildered by the time its over. For some, however, this might be exactly what has been lacking in contemporary music—-a loud and reckless groove-laden barrage at its most challenging.
| Reviewer: Chris Hodge Added: May 2nd 2007 |
|
