Vanhala set was good as usual. But due seeing so many of his sets, it was hardly among the best. Good moments all over the set, but some moments lacked direction. While his best sets have been always going somewhere, this kept returning and re-starting (despite continuous sound, though). It may have been intention, but for me, it appeared like ideas were consumed before set ended. Good beginning. Good ending. Good things in middle, but not flawless arch like in his best gigs! Good, nevertheless!
Contortus was at their (or his) debute gig. Very minimal set up consisting 2 session member helping out the main man behind project. One screeching instrument made out of large circular saw, other theremin. Contortus himself responsible for vocals, and I assume oscillator. Hysteric vocals reminded me of Gerogerigegege "Senzuri Power-Up" style, where it's not like commanding power electronics voice. Not pronouncing words, but wild scream/high pitched howl. Those parts of the gig was perhaps the best. Insane screaming and loud feedback. Extending this few elements into one continuous piece of 20+ minutes was too much. Debut tape where track length are generally 2-5 minutes are much more suitable. For first gig, with zero playback, zero loops or such, I think it was good one. Perhaps 2 session members aren't even needed. It would be visually better if instead of waiting for vocals to start - Contortus himself would be hand-on sound creation with pretty interesting gear he has made.
Decent crowd for size of venue. Perhaps sound improved a bit since last time? Next time lets see what should be done about lights and all that. Be assured more will follow in 2014. Don't be shy to e-mail suggestion or feedback about arrangements. More bands? Different schedule? Live music continued to later hours? Wanting to play here under risk of minimal audience donations? ->
fanimal@cfprod.com
