Techno and modern classical music combine head on in Francesco Tristano’s music, the gifted pianist writing original pieces that include strong elements of both styles, with or without beats. His new ‘Idiosynkrasia’ album is a study in musical invention, and the way ‘Mambo’ heads inexorably for the block piano chords at the end suggests he has a firm grasp of structure. The title track is more propulsive, the live piano making a strong impact, while perhaps most striking of all is the closing ‘Hello – Inner Space Dub’, which gathers itself gradually before building up a great level of intensity. Contrast this with the calm, Erik Satie-like ‘Last Days’, and you have an idea of where Tristano is heading. Equal parts Carl Craig and Philip Glass, this is fascinating stuff.
5 Out Of 5
Reviewed By: Ben Hogwood
