....and One More
Also recently departed: The Swiss fusion drummer Fredy Studer
Before we leave obit patrol for (hopefully) a while, here’s a late August passing that shows just how multi-faceted and deep the world of music is: Most folks don’t know Fredy Studer, but those who do revere him for his precision as a timekeeper and his gift for framing/setting up unusual changes of tempo and feel.
Studer did this with his group OM for a long time, and with guitarist Christy Doran on the cult classic Red Twist & Tuned Arrow. Released in 1987, it’s not my favorite jazz-rock fusion, but in terms of compositional conception and instrumental execution, it is formidible. A big reason is Studer’s sculpting work; he executes the oddball transitions with precisely the right amount of sweep, and drama.
Tom, thanks for the intro to Fredy Studer. I wasn't in the head space to spend much time in his world today- maybe later! But immediately jumped back into Nik Bärscht and also some of the Heliocentrics' music, which continues to bake my brain. I would love to hear your take on either of them if you're so inclined.
Blessings, and thanks as always for expanding my mind.
Deborah in the mountains
Rittenhousesoundworks@gmail.com