The Left Coast Improv Group

The Left Coast Improv Group gathers musicians from various backgrounds with varying results. This five-piece ensemble blends acoustic free improv with electronics, and British free asceticism with exotic sonorities (percussion and koto). The interplay between Shoko Hikage's koto and Ernesto Diaz-Infante's prepared guitar conjures an interesting reflection on tradition and innovation. Bob Marsh's violin and cello provide a well-matching color, as do most of Jim Ryan's flute and percussion work. But Scott R. Looney's real-time electronics feel like the proverbial fifth wheel of the group. Most of the time his fiddling remains discreet or buried in the mix. Then, unexpectedly, he blurts out a loud sequence out of phase with what is happening. If the idea was to shake the improv off its current equilibrium, mission accomplished. The best moments on this CD are to be found in "Cliff Hanger" and "Border Lines," two delicate pieces. The Left Coast Improv Group's music focuses on communication and listening, reminiscent of Pauline Oliveros' work (which makes Looney's contribution all the more disturbing). It cleverly eludes tension-and-release structures without falling into monotone ramblings. The sound quality is not fantastic, but this eponymous CD makes a nice debut. Available only from www.bayimproviser.com. ~ François Couture, All Music Guide