Open Thread - Open Thread
Out 20 September on Earshift Music
Peggy Lee (cello), Julien Wilson (tenor saxophone), Theo Carbo (guitar), Dylan van der Schyff (drums, bells, bowls)
‘Open Thread’ features the innovative Melbourne based ensemble including cellist Peggy Lee, saxophonist Julien Wilson, guitarist Theo Carbo, and drummer Dylan van der Schyff. Their new album weaves together anthemic melodies, diverse rhythmic structures, and a broad range of improvised soundscapes, delivering a unique blend that is both idiosyncratic and reflective of their wide-ranging musical influences.
The project showcases each member's original compositions alongside improvisations to create a unified group sound. "This band is about the creation of a group sonic palette from which compositional and improvisational ideas can play and flourish," says Dylan van der Schyff. The inception of Open Thread was sparked by Peggy Lee's move to Melbourne and her desire to connect with local musicians. This led to a magical gathering of talents, culminating in an improvised performance at Bar 303 in Melbourne, that hinted at the rich possibilities of their collective sound. "The joy we have had in making this music is something we hope listeners will feel, finding it both challenging and rewarding upon repeat listens, " explains Lee.
The album is a journey through emotional and sonic landscapes, featuring tracks like the haunting "Invocation," the rhythmically complex "Easy Pour," and the folk-inflected "Theo’s Song." From the somber melodies of "Wander" to the energetic interplay of "Usurper," Open Thread explores an expansive musical territory. The dedication to the late Paul Motian in "For PM" showcases their ability to honor musical legends while pushing boundaries. "Each musician's deep vocabulary of extended techniques on their instrument, combined with a shared love of melody and song forms, creates an intriguing juxtaposition," explains van der Schyff.
Open Thread's story began with a serendipitous formation in 2023, united by Peggy Lee's initiative and a shared sense of playful experimentation. Their first, entirely improvised performance at Bar 303 laid the foundation for a project marked by ease of communication and a dedication to exploring the unknown. With each member contributing original compositions, Open Thread has carved a distinct niche within the Melbourne music scene, offering listeners a rich sound world that stretches the boundaries of genre and expression.
This music was recorded on the unceded ancestral lands of the people of the Kulin Nation.
About the Music
1."Invocation"
A collective improvisation opens the proceedings with the high pitched, haunting whine of the guitar, the low grind of the cello bow on the tail piece, bells and bowls and a blustery horn call to order.
2. "Easy Pour: contrasts the ever shifting metre in the rhythm section with the effortlessly floating melody and improvisation of saxophonist Julien Wilson.
3. "Theo’s Song" begins as a gentle ballad before moving into a strong, surging statement where the band members improvise around folk melody. The ballad space returns to conclude the piece.
4. "Wander" features two contrasting duos: the sombre melodies in the saxophone and cello and the spiky chattering improvisation of the guitar and drums. Once the written material is fully stated, the cello and sax join in on a full on torrent before returning to the original melodic statement.
5. "Wish For You" has a melancholy yet hopeful feeling that transforms itself, cross fading into a deceptively simple dance before returning to a more robust version of the earlier theme.
6. For PM begins with a frantic vibrational current that lands on a unison melody for saxophone and guitar with counterpoint from the drums and cello. It is dedicated to the late drummer and composer, Paul Motian.
7. "Usurper" is a high-energy blast of playful interactivity built around a melody composed by Julien Wilson
8. "Lore" sets a moody, swampy tone with a pizzicato bass line that repeats, joined first by a chiming ostinato in the guitar and then a saxophone melody.Both the saxophone and guitar solo on the form.
9. "Feelers"
A high pitched sustained guitar is the string onto which hangs the gestures of the other players and then slowly emerges into focus with moving pitches in counterpoint with the saxophone.
10. "What Jig?"
Out of a fierce and noisy opening, a hectic jig emerges and is loosely played collectively throughout without ever fully relinquishing the chaos.
