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Experimental music
I work on experimental musical projects that involve the combined sounds of classical instruments and electronic timbres from more recent traditions. Some very good results can be obtained. The lunar phases symbolize my moods and my passions for various genres at different stages of my life. Jazz, classical, alt rock and comedic are my favourites. Some of my tunes are pieced together from scratch using the best of my imagination, some others are interpretations of music I have been enjoying for a long time. All this with the vital aid of my DAW and fantastic plug-ins. Are maybe new styles about to develop?
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Watching the pot boil
I would imagine that introducing elements of humour in music can be second nature for some. For me too. But at the risk of coming across as pathetic. If I had to be honest, in some of the tunes of this album I would have tried to reduce the hilarious and playful tones to make things sound a little more dramatic and less ridiculous, but that didn't seem to work too well. So I allowed everything to unfold according to my genuine moods, trying to maintain to my usual tragicomic attributes, which are a reflection of some real life experiences. "Watching the pot boil" is a cross section of amusements during a long time spent waiting for some game changing event. The punchy spells have to do with the rare moments of inspiration, or maybe the sporadic lucidity of a lifetime lived in slow motion.
Children in Office
Rock tune with a hip-hop beat characterised by an offbeat syncopation, also known as rhythmic juxtaposition. The emphasis is placed on the weaker beats, creating a feeling of unevenness, which can make the music feel more dynamic. Children are symbolic of innocence, but also ruthless rivalry in the playground. At its core, it all refers to the frustration felt by many about struggling to compete.
Motherland’s Rock, Helen!
This is a song with a robust drum beat and British rhythm guitar riffs in the background, which tells a story about a date at a warehouse party, where electronic dance music is being played. A difficult decision has to be made on the spot, and feelings of guilt ensue.
Feng Shui
Can the physical environment in our homes and gardens make a difference to our quality of life? If you had the time, the answer to this question would be Feng Shui!, some argue. Others would say that a velvet sofa, providing you could spare some cash for it, would make only a negligible difference.
Orchestral Ballet
Inspired by orchestral sounds and featuring the piccolos and various electronic and vocal effects, this ballet class gives details of determination in the entertainment industry by sharing secrets and highlighting the awkwardness of being an underpaid dancer.
One Tot a Pint
With a distinct folk tone, violins and inhumanely rapid keyboard arpeggios, I tried to portray concise images of pub life throughout constant hangovers and dogs breakfasts. The cherry on the cake? That must be the personification of the urinals, or maybe the race of the face.
Buy the T-shirt
Donations requests are made upon exhortations to buy a t-shirt. The choir and the eunuch interplay with percussions, cellos and synths, forging an unusual classical sound with psychedelic elements.
Treading Water
Unfolding in different scales and styles also combining a classical ensemble with dance club sawtooth waves, this tune features guitar solos and wacky drum beats. Among other things, stalemates can be about disappointments, disillusions, anger, and loneliness.
Tart
Round of applause, or should I say round of clapping for all those who like guitars switching from left to right in the background! I hope you will enjoy the bass, deliberately distorted to create a suitable underground environment.
My Punchy Spell
Slightly hypnotic, with a jazzy drum beat and tempo variations, this particular punchy spell is one of those rare time frames when enough energy allows you to express yourself, despite the alter ego's wind ups.
The City Folks
In big cities, people from different countries, traditions and backgrounds live together and sometimes have things in common. Alongside guitars, the detuned saw and the harp, enjoy the percussions and other West African instruments such as the kora, the bafalon, the bolon and the fula flute, which give this tune a tribal character.
The Royal Fish Chef
Sliding bass notes and a distinctive guitar riff for the whole duration put in the spotlight "The Royal Fish Chef", which so far has to be Kursivo's the "good host" and "sit-down comedian" flagship song.
Katia
Primarily created using the Mark One, the Rhodes MK1, and the lead bass samples, it playfully narrates the dream of a romance that has gone awry, likely due to misinterpretations or fading interest.
Hymn to the Bevvies
With a somewhat ironic zest, I aimed to capture the bittersweet experiences surrounding alcohol. The contrasting drum kicks introduce rhythm, while the vocal sections are highlighted by variations of distorted guitar that weave between segments featuring melancholic strings, sitar, and an array of special effects.
Rhyming Compouds
Featuring a dissonant violin and a quirky, squelching bass playing sparse and rapid notes, it explores common frustrations through rhyme. With the inclusion of the djembe and West African bells, I would also characterize this track as "somewhat tribal".
My new phases
An ambitious new album, which follows the journey laid out in the previous lunar phases albums taking a bold step forward, and expanding its sonic palette with fresh electronic influences. The seamless blend of genres invites to embark on a transformative auditory experience that feels both familiar and exhilaratingly novel.
The opening track "La Follia" sets a peculiar tone for the album. Spanning a remarkable 10 minutes, this classical crossover piece draws inspiration from Vivaldi’s renowned sonata, showcasing a rich tapestry of virtuosic instrumentation and effects. Textures and dynamics are layered to create a fluid narrative, capturing the essence of both classical tradition and contemporary innovation.
Following this grand introduction, "Rest and Digest" delivers a refreshing pop-rock vibe reminiscent of "Razzle Dazzle," featured in the previous album. This track is designed to soothe the flight or fights of daily life. The engaging guitar counterpoint towards the end may remind some of you of old baroque compositions.
Next, "Quack in String G-Flat" instils a playful and whimsical spirit into the album. Described as a “party of irate ducks” (and maybe an inflatable flamingo too), this track pairs a lively modern jazz beat with unexpected synth elements. The result is an infectious burst of energy for originality and fun, making it a highlight for anyone seeking a joyous escape. If it doesn’t make you want to waddle carefree through the park, I don’t know what will!
"Messiah Pariah" transcends genres, weaving African percussions with classical instrumentation, including a captivating cello and acoustic guitar sporadic notes. This track is characterized by rhythm. The dystopian effects and the breath are just the tip of the iceberg. Who wouldn’t want their existential crisis set to music?
As we traverse the album's landscape, "Pink Bidets" presents a curious stylistic juxtaposition within its playful arrangement. The blend of bass and acoustic guitar creates a classical counterpoint, all while being anchored by a laid-back jazz beat. The crescendo that culminates adds a layer of cool. Ultimately, in a world full of bathrooms fitted with white enamel pans, "Pink Bidets" stands out as oddity.
In "Random Thoughts" I explore the interplay of volume dynamics by manipulating hi-hats and kicks to create an immersive soundscape that evokes visceral reactions. The use of electronic effects adds layers of suspense, capturing the awesome essence of a heart racing. It’s all so good, even if it feels like something’s lurking in the shadows.
Closing the album, "Deep Water Growls" immerses in an emotional depths previously unexplored. The angry, suppressed screams combined with the resonant Reese bass and acid bath synths evoke an oceanic landscape rich with psychological reverberations. This track embodies the raw and unfiltered emotions that lie beneath the surface. If you have gills and a good pair of water-resistant earbuds, swim through it.
My phases
"My Phases" is a continuation of my musical palette. Following the format of the other lunar phases albums, this instalment features seven other diverse tracks that reflect a maturation, while introducing enhancing elements.
The album opens with "Oh Niccoló", a classical crossover piece that pays homage to the legendary violinist Niccolò Paganini. This track, composed of variations of his works, sets an introspective tone that invites listeners into an imaginative world that blends traditional classical influences with modern sensibilities.
Next comes "Hospital Punter", a humorous tune steeped in whimsical irony. With its steady beat, the song was intended to capture the struggle to maintain optimism even when ice skating uphill. This balance of levity amidst life's challenges resonates deeply, encouraging listeners to find humour even in times of pain.
"Colleagues in Bed" follows, offering a lively jazz-infused conversation between lovers. The track is constructed with two basses, where the dialogue evolves organically, culminating in a harmonious resolution that highlights the beauty of connection and compromise. It's the sort of impromptu that makes you question whether it’s a spontaneous duet or an argument over who left the toilet seat up.
Shifting gears, "Prop Spoof" ramps up the energy with a dynamic bassline and an array of special effects that could make even the most stoic of sound engineer chuckle. A sound crafted to evoke the essence of a propagandistic joke, with a keyboard that mimics a growling voice, presenting rich plots wrapped in a satirical sound.
The album continues its exhilarating journey with "Razzle Dazzle", a display of guitar solos underpinned by a hypnotic riff. With the key change and a little nostalgia this track possibly echoes the '80s, and is possibly reminiscent of fun fairs and roller coasters. If you don’t end up craving candy floss by the end, you haven't listened properly.
Next, "Punchy Spells" introduces a mix of jazzy undertones and unconventional drum patterns. This tune captures the theme of fleeting bursts of energy and the long anticipations that often precede a cathartic release.
To conclude "My Phases" I presented "A Sound Sound", a track that embodies a no-nonsense approach for all the aficionados. This last song features distorted guitars, wah effects, and swift violin solos, delivering rock-infused energy and confidence.
My early phases
My Early Phases is a vibrant sonic journey that comprises seven tracks, each representing different musical influences akin to the varying phases of the moon. Composing is about imagining series of notes and chords, putting them together in a scale with a suitable tempo, adding and subtracting, and trying out different instrument timbres for different parts until everything sounds good.
The album opens with “Caprice No. 5”, a classical crossover piece inspired by Paganini, and meticulously crafted for speed. Here, the creative focus is in the spatial soundscape and arrangement, where every note is positioned to maximize its impact. The track launches the listener into a world where classical roots intertwine with modern sensibilities, setting an exhilarating tone of anticipation for what is to come.
Following the energetic opener, “Chillax” offers a contrasting experience. In this track, the bass and xylophone interlace to create an atmosphere of relaxation, a deliberate move to soothe while maintaining a level of tension, an element that I consistently weave throughout my work. The calculated arrangement reveals the desire to balance mellowness with a hint of edginess, marking a shift in the album's tone.
Then comes “Mixolydian Exercises,” which serves as an exploration of the Mixolydian scale. This piece tells a poignant story through its bass and drum arrangement, blending a sense of melancholy with resilience. The added trumpet, like a beacon of hope, pierces through and feels like sorrow, reminding us that even in our losses, there’s a bittersweet victory awaiting. The narrative demonstrates the ability of music to reflect human experiences.
Then we reach "Lounge Bar", an evocative piece where fantasies unfold. Imagine a space where heroes gather, feeling perky, loving, and dreamy. This track is a nod to a bygone era, filled with nostalgia and glamour, transporting you to a place where innovation was once synonymous with thrilling creativity.
The narrative then plunges into my fantasy “Waiting Room”, hopefully less boring than the real ones. The intensity rises as a wah effect generates a vortex, sucking in frustration and anticipation. The sense of urgency echoes the existential weight that often accompanies the act of waiting, and is being made into a standout moment.
In “Set the Fire on the Third Bar” listeners will recognize echoes of Snow Patrol’s original. I tried to imbue this interpretation with an unique flair, drawing into a different sense of urgency. Against the backdrop of an engaging Middle Eastern vibe, the transition into chaos adds a fervent energy, eventually pulling you into a heavy metal-inspired beat that’s hard to resist.
Finally we wrap up with "So What," a tribute to the legendary Miles Davis. The guitar ignites with an enraged energy, building upon the themes of tension. The raw emotion captured was meant to serve as a compelling conclusion.
California dreaming
The original intent was to add some more gravitas to the nostalgic yet hopeful theme of the famous tune by The Mamas and the Papas. So, I interpreted by extending an acoustic bass line with phasing effects and minimizing rhythmic keyboard chords. I thought that for the solo the trumpet could have created a more contemplative mood than the flute, which in the original delivers a nice melodic tone. The psychological mechanisms that lead to musical creation can certainly vary from person to person according to different life experiences and taste. My feelings for a hypothetical homeland are perhaps imbued with complexities and a jazzy, vigorous feel.
Digital motors
“The bumper car” is the first track I have ever composed, and features in the comic cartoon “Vutu che te la conti o che te la diga?" (Do you want me to say it or recount it for you?). I had started everything a long time ago by putting together random sounds I liked. Then it soon became apparent that the things I was doing had all something in common, they were all reminiscent of raging engines or electrical devices roaring, bursting, thundering, decaying, jamming or bumping into each other in the various spooky atmospheres. I am not sure under what kind of genre this music could be classed. All I know is that I just followed my inspiration and my taste, drawing a bit from the funk bass tradition, a bit from techno, and a bit from dance. In a way that should be able to inspire the inebriated amongst you who are in need of a bebop on the kitchen tables. I hope you will enjoy listening. (Teaser available on the Player page)
Reviews
Caprice No. 5
Overall Impression:
A wild ride of intrigue, Caprice No. 5 by Kursivo is a genre-bending crossover that is built for speed. This new release by the Experimental musician is inspired by the famous 24 Caprices, and makes its mark with its unique Electronic sound. The similarities between Paganini's virtuosic showpiece for violin and Kursivo's Caprice No. 5 reveal themselves immediately. The busy, mechanical violin work instantly steals attention and pulls the listener along. It tips its hat to Paganini's melodies while traversing its own path. The excitement never falters, but avoids being overwhelming. Kursivo has demonstrated this care for intensity in his other works, and nails the balance with Caprice No. 5. This track passes through various textures, complete with punchy accents and a driving drum groove. All in all, it makes for a terrifically exciting listen and dazzling display of creativity.
Strongest Point(s):
The mix in Caprice No. 5 is very well done. It seems plenty of attention has been given to the spacial placement of each sound. The instruments, of course, occupy their own space between the left and right sides, but they have also been designated a spot in the vertical construction of the sound. This allows for a more three-dimensional listening experience that gives life to the entire track. It is a cool effect that will please the most attentive of listeners.
About The Reviewer:
Zachary Larson is a professional guitarist in New York City. Getting his start in high school rock bands, he has since toured the world as a classical chamber musician, onboard cruise lines, and with several Broadway musicals. His recorded work spans across Classical, Pop, and Experimental music. His arrangements are published through Clear Note Publications. Classically trained, he holds a Master of Music degree from the University of Denver.
Punchy Spells
Overall Impression:
Experimental musician Kursivo has released the new track Punchy Spells. Angular and jazzy, Punchy Spells jolts forward with attention grabbing snippets of sound and feel. Guitars, organ, and percussion all feed off of one another like the first conversation between friends at a party. Experimental music often requires a patient and thoughtful set of ears from the listener. Punchy Spells does make these same demands but does so without being overbearing or mind-numbing. There are groovy and melodic moments that comprise the frontside of the tune as well as a plethora of colors and timbre. While it does take a while for this tune to find its final groove, the pay off is worth it when it settles in. With the release of Punchy Spells, Kursivo gives listeners an opportunity to expand their minds and go down a totally unique, musical road.
Strongest Point(s):
As simple as this revelation may sound, the inclusion of the drum beat is one of the most important features in this track. Without an easy groove for listeners to hold onto, many would simply find tracks such as this too far out. As mentioned above, the track eventually settles into a more cohesive groove toward the last few minutes. When this groove hits, everything seems to make sense. It is a very cool pay off, and a tricky idea to grasp and compose.
About The Reviewer:
Zachary Larson is a professional touring guitarist and multi-instrumentalist. Getting his start in high school rock bands, he has toured as a classical chamber musician, onboard luxury cruises, and with the Broadway musicals Finding Neverland and Escape To Margaritaville. His recorded work spans across Classical, Pop, and Experimental music. His arrangements of orchestral music are published through Clear Note Publications. Classically trained, he holds a Master of Music degree from the University of Denver.
The Royal Fish Chef
Overall Impression:
There comes a time in many a music lover's life when you simply need a song like "The Royal Fish Chef", whereas many artists endeavor to market their music in a broader mainstream appealing fashion, artists such as Kursivo, who's armed with a clearly great sense of humor, simply laughs in the face of what we are led to believe is normal genre conventions and proceeds to throw them out of the closest nearby window, and I think it's splendid! You'll be hard-pressed to find a track quite like "The Royal Fish Chef", it's gloriously bizarre, utterly hilarious, and weirdly mesmerizing. Kursivo is doing his own thing and sounds like he's having an absolute blast whilst he does it! All hail The Royal Fish Chef!
Strongest Point(s):
Where do we begin?! First off, I understand this is clearly a comedic track, and it most certainly works! Just reading through the lyrics was enough to have me howling with laughter! Kursivo paints a particularly wacky and outlandish picture that gives listeners a thoroughly insanity-inducing insight into the mad world of "The Royal Fish King", replete with lashings of grungy synth, scarily eccentric vocal explorations, and a zany sense of rhythm. Now yes, there are a few technical hiccups here and there, but I think it just adds to the track's gloriously kooky charm. It's safe to say I most definitely won't be forgetting this one anytime soon!
About The Reviewer:
Andre Avanessian is a freelance session musician, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K. Having studied music production and composition at a degree level, he has taken his passion for all things audio-related to a level that has allowed him to become both a competent musician and performer. Being a self-confessed "Guitar Nerd" Andre has been continually studying the guitar, as well as teaching it, helping students both learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and how to become proficient in home recording.
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