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Twentysecond, Swift contains three movements, each using a recording of a mandolin performance as its sonic material. Each performance occurred, with little rehearsal, while the performer listened to a certain piece multiple times in succession: “Begin Again” (2×), “22” (5×), and “State of Grace (Acoustic Version)” (3×), from Red by Taylor Swift.
For each movement, copies of the recording were layered, lining up the repetitions of the original piece (without splicing). Thus, each movement is a simple canon. Due to the long delays between layers (and limited performance skill), the final sonic result could not be predicted in performance. Likewise, because the recording was not spliced, compositional control is limited. Effects were used, but the integrity of the recording is maintained.
Although some may consider the work to be improvisational music, I consider it as field recordings or found sound and process music. I am inspired by the system comprising the performer, instrument, and various sonic elements. I am intrigued by the distribution and nonexistence of intention.
online booklet: goo.gl/FYYqGJ
credits
released November 13, 2013
Recorded in Wilmington, North Carolina. All tracks composed, performed, recorded, and mixed by Salman Bakht. Performance inspired by "Begin Again" (Swift), "22" (Swift, Max Martin, Shellback), and "State of Grace (Acoustic Version)" (Swift).
Tools: Rogue RM-100A mandolin, Schoenhut 37-key melodica, Folgers 33.9 oz coffee container (Classic Roast, empty), Zoom H2 portable recorder, Adobe Audition, Mac mini (2011).
Inspirations: Taylor Swift, Michael Pisaro, Kaki King, Godspeed You! Black Emperor, Henry Flynt, Phill Niblock, Coil.
Play these tracks at any volume, at any time, in any context, with any accompaniment (sonic or otherwise).
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