New Music Against The Grain at Slack Space

Contemporary classical music: dead and boring? Stuffy? Acoustic only? Elitist? Stuck in the past?

Think again.

Stuart Russell, in association with Colchester New Music, presents New Music Against The Grain at Slack Space on Saturday 3 December 2011.

The evening explores vital new instrumental music that draws on electronic techniques, rock textures applied to classical instruments, post-minimalist approaches and improvisation.

Stuart will present a selection of acousmatic works, including pieces by Alan Parsons, Norah Lorway, and others to be announced. He will also perform a short live electronic set, featuring an electronic realisation of Straight Line Music by Lauren Redhead.

Sam Grinsell will deliver a short set influenced by Bach, Ornette Coleman and Bill Drummond (The17), combining artfully manipulated field recordings with improvised slide guitar to create one-off soundscapes.

Headlining the night are Midnight Llama, an experimental outfit based in West Yorkshire and the brainchild of electric violinist Chrissie Caulfield and actress/percussionist Karen Kirkup. Known for pushing boundaries, the duo blend acoustic instruments with rock guitar pedals, unconventional techniques and theatrical performance elements.

The programme will also include additional pieces by Lauren Redhead and Chrissie Caulfield.

Entry is free.