Thollem has released the newest installments of his epic 25 album Astral Traveling Series, out now via the Austin, TX-based label Astral Spirits Records. Recorded during his 2019 touring schedule, the series finds the keyboard/pianist working with over 70 different musicians across this voluminous collection. This month features a recording Thollem made with the Washington, D.C.-based drummer Nik Francis, as well as a live performance featuring the keyboardist on piano and synthesizer with bassists Steuart Liebig and Miller Wren, drummer Alex Cline, and oboist Breana Gilcher.
Regarding his performance with the improvisational drummer Nik Francis, Thollem reports that session was their first meeting after they were introduced by multi-instrumentalist and D.C. concert organizer Luke Stewart. The self-recording features Thollem on a Waldorf Blofeld synthesizer and was recorded in December of 2019 at the the cities’ art and learning Center, Rhizome. At times other-worldly and cosmic in scope as it trips through stellar spheres and alien worlds, the duo’s inter-dimensional work together is also capable of channeling powerful chthonic forces. Discussing their collaboration, Francis explains:
“The music manifests as a hard hitting drum/organ duo at one moment, and in the next, an ethereal twinkling dance about scrapes and transient chimes.”
Also out now is Thollem’s live session with Liebig, Cline, Gilcher, and Wrenn. Recorded on July 21st at the now-defunct Blue Whale in LA, the concert brings together an exciting, veteran ensemble of improvisational players. With Thollem on piano and synthesizer, and backed by “two basses, double reeds, and a gazillion drums,” this thundering set is both simmering and exploratory, as well as alive with the group’s powerful low end and electric energy. Combining years of experience on their particular instruments and with an infectious passion for improvisational music, this group’s night at the Blue Whale is a joyful reminder that live, improvised music still lies at the zenith of creative performance.
