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PLAYFIELD is a three-album trilogy project, and its second volume, The Middle embodies its name in every way. Described by the musicians behind it as a center of conflict, of a collective dynamic, of rising tension and different voices, or in their words, as they “agree to disagree...to discover and resolve or abandon [the project].” Throughout the extended track, Carter’s clarinet engages with Ishito’s saxophone, sharing the soprano section with Luisa Muhr’s indecipherable vocals. Bassist Zach Swanson sets a steady electric structure, complemented by Panikkar’s sparse drumming, and Plak’s weighted keys. Guitarists Namenwirth and Takahashi perform assuredly, and playfully around the other structures. The album’s arc, after slowing in the middle, crescendos at the end towards an unknown conclusion, ending as it began. PLAYFIELD’s three albums will be offered online and in an exclusive, limited-edition CD pressing of 50.
credits
released April 17, 2021
Daniel Carter: Horns and Reeds
Luisa Muhr: Voice
Ayumi Ishito: Sax
Eric Plaks: Nord piano
Aron Namenwirth: Guitar
Yutaka Takahashi: Guitar
Zach Swanson: Bass
Jon Panikkar: Drums
Recorded on October 4, 2020 by Aron Namenwirth and Yutaka Takahashi
at C.O.W. (culture of waste) 166N 12th st. Brooklyn N.Y.
Mix engineer and dub organizer: DJMAGIKCLOWNS
Mastered by Jon Rosenberg
All music by Playfield (Five Seven Seven Records Music, ASCAP)
Painting by Aron Namenwirth
Album design by Mark Smith
supported by 90 fans who also own “Playfield Vol. 2: The Middle”
This record really hits that sweet spot of calm stimulation. Lush, fat, rolling synths form the foundation for controlled but passionate and thoughtful playing and listening from everyone. Meditative and energetic...and always bad-ass. ps0m
supported by 85 fans who also own “Playfield Vol. 2: The Middle”
This album is absolutely on the mark! The best of what modular synth is capable of, plus a true spiritual feeling of the "griot" heritage, without aping anything. I'm more than impressed. So beautiful. wilsonnovitzki
A collection of tracks from the singer and multi-disciplinary artist's 111 collaboration series, featuring KMRU, Laraaji, and others. Bandcamp New & Notable Apr 25, 2024
supported by 84 fans who also own “Playfield Vol. 2: The Middle”
A beautiful cacophony. The twin guitar attacks are furious but don't overwhelm and the saxophone has no problem finding its own space. The percussion is subtle but propulsive as it always is with Prevost.
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