Robin Holcomb/Wayne Horvitz

Country of origin:

U.S.

Type of music generally:

Somewhat experimental contemporary classical avant-garde piano instrumentals

Status:

Most recent release together, Solos (2004)

See also:

Robin Holcomb's site

Wayne Horvitz's site

The Ectoguide page for Robin Holcomb's work as a solo artist and their collaboration with Talking Pictures

Both Robin Holcomb and Wayne Horvitz perform as solo artists and as well in a variety of band projects. See their individual web sites for more info.

Comparisons:

Keith Jarrett's solo piano work

Covers/own material:

Own, occasional covers

General comments:

Wayne Horvitz and Robin Holcomb are a couple who are well-known in new classical/experimental circles. Both of them play solo as well as with various, changing groups of other artists. Robin Holcomb also has an ongoing career doing experimental folk music. Both are masters of new classical music and of improvisation. (Neile)

Comments about live performance:

I have only heard Robin Holcomb do solo piano performances, but highly recommend hearing her live as her performances are incantory and transcendant experiences. (Neile)

Recommended first album:

Solos (2004) is their sole release as a together

Recordings:

Solos (2004)

Solos

Release info:

2004—Songlines—SGL SA 5A1550-2

Availability:

See Songlines' or Robin Holcomb's sites

Ecto priority:

Highly recommended for fans of solo piano work

Group members:

Robin Holcomb—piano
Wayne Horvitz—piano

Produced by:

Wayne Horvitz & Tony Reif

Comments:

From the description of the project on Robin Holcomb's site:

While Robin Holcomb and Wayne Horvitz have appeared on record in each other's company numerous times, this is their first recording actually sharing the billing. Together—and yet alone, each plays solo piano. The program includes original compositions, three improvisations and three covers, including Wayne Shorter's beautiful "Armageddon."

These pieces, often improvisory, feel both constructed and loose. And gorgeous. Full of journeys, emotional variety, delightful turns, and eddys of sound. It's the kind of music that seizes you and takes you places you hadn't expected, and rewards close attention, though can also be atmospheric as background music on a rainy day. (Neile)

Further info:

The duo has recorded several songs for compilations including:

• "Bonnie and Clyde" on Great Jewish Music: Serge Gainsbourg (1997)
• "I've Been All Around This World" on the benefit album Songs for Shelter—Seattle Musicians Helping Homeless Families (2005)
• "Mah L'kha Ha-Yam Variation" on Festival of Light 2 (2007)