Partikel - Counteraction [CD]

Vibrant release 'Counteraction' sees Partikel shifts up another gear, with music crafted specifically around their forward-thinking approach to composition, while also introducing atmospheric electric guitarist Ant Law, flautist and baritone saxophonist Anna Cooper, and electronic sound designer Sisi Lu. Since their Whirlwind debut as an acoustic trio ('Cohesion', 2012), Partikel have progressively pushed at the developmental possibilities, and 2015's 'String Theory' - augmenting the line-up of Duncan Eagles (saxophones), Max Luthert (double bass) and Eric Ford (drums) with string quartet - generated significant interest, spawning numerous gigs both in the UK and internationally. These live experiences (including a month touring China) saw the band's sound climbing to new heights, enhanced by the work of violinist Benet McLean and super-sized with the creative blends enabled by digital harmonizers, pedals and programming. The compositions (mostly by Eagles) explore fascinating textural avenues, balancing and integrating them with the band's original sax, bass and drums identity to create often strikingly unusual resonances. For example, their revisitation of previously-issued trio track 'Blood of the Pharoah' now elevates its spatial, percussive mystery through windswept ambience and cello, achieving greater dramatic intensity. This album's zeal is defined by strongly collaborative arrangements and explosive playing throughout - but then, to follow such an evolving course is a liberating process for the band. Personnel: Duncan Eagles (saxophones), Max Luthert (double and electric bass), Eric Ford (drums), Ant Law (guitar), Benet McLean (violin), Anna Cooper (flute and baritone saxophone), Matthew Sharp (cello), SiSi Lu (electronics).