John Korsrud

It’s unusual for artists to have retrospectives of their work before their grey hairs start proliferating. In composer/trumpeter John Korsrud’s case, a look back at his work over the last decade is justified and thoroughly engaging: this guy writes compelling music. Founder of one of Canada’s finest new music ensembles, the Hard Rubber Orchestra, Korsrud has the enviable position of being their main composer, having access to the treasure trove of instrumental resources with which to realise his wildest musical fantasies. But this collection of pieces also features Amsterdam’s Combustion Chamber playing the monster-movie-inspired "Glurp,” an eerily atmospheric musical shape-shifter. The four movements of "VAP DIST” by HRO go by quickly, their changing textures and moods relentlessly moving forward, powered by an insistent, take-no-prisoners percussion section. While liner notes name-check composers like George Crumb, John Zorn and John Williams, Korsrud’s rhythms have a Zappa zip that makes for a fun and spastic time trying to toe tap along. No new music snob, the composer even joyfully mixes things up with D.O.A.’s West coast punk aesthetic in the person of Joey Shithead. All in all, this ten-track CD shows an accomplished, highly imaginative composer stretching his wings and taking listeners for a soaring, roaring adventure in musical exploration. Highly recommended.