Video Premiere: Evelyn Glennie, Owen Gardner, John Edwards, Bex Burch “Liquid Image”
We are thrilled to premiere the mesmerizing video for “Liquid Image,” the launch track from the collaborative, improvised album ‘Tangled Goodbye’. This compelling work brings together the talents of experimental musicians Bex Burch, John Edwards, Owen Gardner, and the legendary Dame Evelyn Glennie. Recorded at London’s iconic performance space, Café OTO, in 2022, this album is a must-listen for those who appreciate unpredictable, unconfinable improvised music.
For over 15 years, Café OTO in Dalston, East London, has been a cornerstone for artistic freedom and collaboration. The venue is celebrated for hosting multi-day residencies, allowing artists to explore their craft in greater depth. In September 2022, Bex Burch, a percussionist and composer known for her innovative approach, led one of these residencies. On September 25, Burch performed alongside three remarkable musicians: Dame Evelyn Glennie, John Edwards, and Owen Gardner.
The quartet brings a diverse array of skills and perspectives to the album. Dame Evelyn Glennie, a pioneering percussionist, has spent decades redefining how we experience sound, using her entire body as an instrument, since featuring heavily on the much sought after Cults Percussion Ensemble, whilst still at school. John Edwards, a master of the double bass, has been at the forefront of London’s experimental music scene since the mid-1990s, known for his versatile and inventive techniques, playing alongside the likes of Evan Parker, Sunny Murray, and Derek Bailey.
Owen Gardner, Matmos collaborator and frontman of the experimental band Horse Lords, is renowned for his distinctive guitar work, employing unconventional tuning systems to create intricate soundscapes. Bex Burch, previously known best for the post punk leaning Vula Viel trio and more recently her acclaimed solo album on International Anthem, adds her unique style of ‘messy minimalism’ to the mix, crafting a distinctive auditory experience with her handmade xylophones.
The foundation of the music is crafted by percussionists Bex Burch and Dame Evelyn Glennie, with Burch’s xylophone and Owen Gardner’s microtonal guitar adding subtle melodies. John Edwards’ double bass acts as a driving force, unifying the compositions and blending elements of free jazz, noise, industrial, minimal music, and musique concrète.
‘Tangled Goodbye’ embodies the essence of true experimentation—an exploration with no predetermined outcome. Each track was carefully selected from the most compelling parts of the performance, with titles that provoke curiosity and imagination. The music moves seamlessly from intense and chaotic to serene and reflective, always maintaining a sense of vitality and presence.
The gently evolving “Liquid Image” serves as a brilliant introduction to the album, and Kai-Luen Liang’s video beautifully complements the track’s fluid and dynamic nature. Bex kindly shared some words for us. “Preparing for this album has been as joyful and flowing as the gig at Cafe OTO where the music was created. Listening back and looking at the photos just reminds me how special a night that was. Four people listening and making in a truly collaborative way. I just feel very very fortunate. And equally fortunate to be able to share that moment in time with the world in this release!”
Released on Bex Burch’s label, Vula Viel Records, Tangled Goodbye reflects its roots in community and artistic expression. The label’s name, meaning “good is good” in Dagaare, underscores the lasting impact of creative endeavors.
Bex Burch and Evelyn Glennie are scheduled to perform together at Hannover’s Überschlag Festival on August 29, 2024, providing another opportunity to experience their innovative collaboration live.
We invite you to immerse yourself in the “Liquid Image” video and explore the innovative soundscapes of Tangled Goodbye.
