Prints: snapshots, postcards and miniatures 1987-2001 by Fred Frith

10 May

Written by Glenn Astarita
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Guitar pioneer Fred Frith wears his multi-instrumentalist hat on these works culled from compilations he’s participated in and other niceties. The first number titled "Trains, & Boats & Planes," was composed by Burt Bachrach and was originally featured on the songwriter’s wonderful tribute CD, recorded for John Zorn’s "Tzadik" label. Here, Frith’s understated vocals and EFX treatments are interspersed with oscillating patterns amid a delightful construction of the primary melody. Many of these pieces consist of layered mosaics of sound and whimsical themes. Yet, the guitarist often provides a quasi-psychedelic edge via his spacey rock licks. To that end, "Reduce Me," is an electro/acoustic ballad featuring Frith’s vocalise in concert with rumbling percussion grooves and a playfully enacted cosmic meltdown. Ever the improviser, Frith seldom plays it safe. With this outing, you’ll hear a superbly articulated medley of ethereal dreamscapes minced with tuneful violin parts, wacko, pop-rock style motifs and much more.

Additional Info

Artist / Group Name: Fred Frith
CD Title: Prints: snapshots, postcards and miniatures 1987-2001
Genre: Fusion
Year Released: 2003
Record Label: Fred Records/ReR Megacorp
Tracks: Trains, Boats & Planes, Stones, Fingerprints, Life Of A Detective, The Ballad Of Melody Nelson, Trocosi, Reduce Me, Levity, True Love, I Want It To Be Over, Spot, In The Winter Of 64'
Label Website: http://www.rermegacorp.com
Rating: Four Stars