Maria Moles - Opening LP

A percussionist based in Melbourne known for her work with Francis Plagne, Adam Halliwell, and On Diamond, ‘Opening’ is Maria Moles’ solo debut. Although a drum-centric album, this is by no means a drum solo nor the usual barrage of rhythms that one may expect from many free improv percussionists. Side A features a meditative and considered movement through the kit from lusher tolls of cymbals and bells through to sharper passages of stick-based drumming, with Side B more heavily reliant upon synthesisers and electronic processing. Rhythms abound but never feel like they get stuck into strict grids. In a weird way the album most immediately recalls Jon Gibson’s ‘Visitations’ or in parts even Steve Reich’s ‘Drumming’ (but without the maths). -Mitch