The BAM theatre was a perfect setting for this eclectic program of work. The show started with Kronos Quartet performing Amon Tobin’s “Bloodstone” on digitally altered stringed instruments. By blocking certain sensors the band manipulated various loops that constructed the song consisting of various samples from their past recordings. It took me awhile to figure out what was happening and it was a weird coincidence that I had just picked up Amon’s new album the day before.
The Quartet then performed several songs to Dear Mme, a 20-minute music-theater piece staged and composed by Erik Sanko. I’ve only known Erik through his musical work in Skeleton Key, but I was blown away by the elaborate show he put on.
After intermission the stage was set for the US premiere of Uniko composed by Kimmo Pohjonen and sampling artist Samuli Kosminen. Pohjonen’s manipulation of the accordion was incredible and unexpected. His composition accompanied with the innovative sounds of the Kronos Quartet created an absolutely breathe taking performance. The performance took me to another world and its moments like this that makes me appreciate the power of live music. The music had such a dynamic range, going from ethereal soundscapes to triumphant explosions of sound. Although Kronos Quartet have been hit or miss with me in the past years, this performance was easily one of the best showings I’ve witnessed from them and one of the best shows of the year.
http://www.eriksanko.com/
http://www.kronosquartet.org/
http://www.kimmopohjonen.com/
“Kalma” video (from Uniko) w/ Kronos – Live at Helsinki Festival 2004