Kihnoua - Unauthorized Caprices

Larry Ochs: sopranino & tenor saxophones
Dohee Lee: voice
Scott Amendola: drums, electronics
Liz Allbee: trumpet, electronics (tracks 1,2,5)
Fred Frith: guitar (track 2)
Joan Jeanrenaud: cello (tracks 2,5)

Kihnoua is a new ensemble that combines the thoughts, sounds, and structures of contemporary improvised music with the traditional music of Asia and other folk-music influences from Asia, Africa, and Europe. With Larry Ochs of the critically acclaimed Rova Saxophone Quartet, drumming powerhouse Scott Amendola, composer, vocalist, and dancer Dohee Lee, and acclaimed cellist Joan Jeanrenaud, plus guests: Liz Albee on trumpet & electronics, Fred Frith on guitar and Joan Jeanrenaud on cello. I didn't know this vocalist, Ms. Dohee Lee, before this disc, but this is a good showcase for her as an integral part of Larry Ochs' fine new trio. Both Scott Amendola and Liz Allbee contribute strange electronics sounds to the long opening piece which works well with Ms. Lee's bizarre vocal sounds. You can tell that Mr. Ochs' exhilarating sax and Mr. Amendola's propulsive drumming have been working together for many years since they compliment each other so well. Ms. Allbee is another strong Bay Area improviser who has worked with Henry Kaiser, Damon Smith and Weasel Walter previously. Ms. Allbee contributes a good deal of extended trumpet sounds to these pieces and is also a good match for Larry, Scott and Dohee. Former Kronos cellist Joan Jeanrenaud & guitarist Fred Frith add their sonic spice to a long piece called "Nothing Stopped but a Future" which is expertly navigated by Scott's strong drumming. Joan's soaring cello adds flames to this burning piece while Dohee's voice and Larry's sax swirl intensely around one another. Ms. Lee's scary whispered vocals are featured on "DeeHyak" while she erupts on "Weightless", spewing out intense layers aggressive vocals with sprawling drums underneath. This disc is one of the most intense and spirited exhibitions I've heard in recent memory. Don't miss out on this jewel. - Bruce Lee Gallanter, Downtown Music Gallery

2010 UNAUTHORIZED CAPRICES