The majority of Earth-bound humans would opt for one of two obvious courses of action should they be given sufficient warning the end is nigh. Some might choose bacchanalian indulgence and lawless decadence. Ches Smith has them covered.
Interpret It Well, the unsettling new album by the innovative percussionist, conveys the sense of nausea induced by existential excess. Three distinguished accomplices- violist Mat Maneri, guitarist Bill Frisell and pianist Craig Taborn- enable Smith’s queasy course.
Even idealistic listeners are likely to associate Ghosted with abhorrently riveting experiences such as driving past a ghastly car accident or spending Saturday night in the waiting room of an overtaxed emergency room.
Preparing for destruction will inspire others to summon a higher power. The inventive guitarist Oren Ambarchi’s hypnotic new album with bassist Johan Berthling and percussionist Andreas Werliin might serve as a nonsectarian hymn.
The successful melding of Malian folk music, the Islamic adhan, Indian classical music and Terry Riley-style minimalism suggests that Ghosted is the ultimate rarity: a good “world music” album. In truth, the trio creates interstellar jazz.
Two extraordinary music videos interpret the differing apocalyptic perspectives. Ambarchi’s "II" consists of everyday scenes of nature. "Protect Your Home", a short film depicting literal doomsday scenarios, is set to the title track of Interpret It Well.