Experimentalist Tom White dons two very different sets of scientist
goggles on Side Down, one for “No script
on set” (side A) and another for “Behind the face of a rock, throwing stones”
(side B). “No script” suggests you waltz up on stage and dive in – either you
remember what you’re supposed to be doing or you wing it and see if it works.
Who cares which one applies here – White’s certainly got somewhat of a plan,
but I think he’s dabbling in some dense improve too. “No script” is split into
three parts and was originally a piece performed live for eight channels. Here
it’s considered a “re-imagining.” I’m imagining all kinds of machines and
gadgets working together in concert for some kind of common goal. I don’t know
what it is, but I’m mesmerized by the process!
“Behind the face of a rock, throwing stones” is exactly what the tape
says it is – rehearsal music. Sadly, our disease-riddled world isn’t really
allowing any sorts of artistic performance (except for country music concerts
in Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee, probably), so we’ll just have to wait to
see Surface Area, a dance company composed of “deaf and hearing artists,” do
their thing to Tom White’s groove. I’m just kidding, this isn’t really a groove
– it’s totally choreographed and likely not remotely what I’m picturing in my
head right now. But White takes a really tactile approach here, prioritizing “noncochlear”
sound for its rhythmic and vibratory properties. Truly, these are frequencies
that resonate throughout the body, allowing for even the hard-of-hearing to
internalize and interpret them. Maybe one day soon we’ll be able to gather with
other humans and witness art in person once again, and on that day Tom White
and Surface Area will finally be able to perform their work together.
I’ll probably just stay home though, I’ve gotten used to that.
https://anathemarchive.bandcamp.com/
--Ryan
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