Sounding conversations
A total of 27 conversations with a wide variety of people led pianist Anicia Kohler not only to her emphatically harmonious solo record "Songs vom Dach", but also to an accompanying volume that is well worth reading.
With the lockdown in spring 2020, Anicia Kohler's structures also collapsed. Which is why the Bernese pianist set herself some homework, as she explains in the foreword to the volume accompanying her new album Songs from the roof writes: "In normal times, my life is characterized by encounters with a wide variety of people." She sorely missed this exchange, which inspired the artist to have 27 conversations - for example with a farmer, a mayor and an opera singer. She subsequently documented these conversations both in writing and musically.
The 150-page booklet with the title Up the walls to the roof and the record are two releases that complement each other wonderfully, but also work on their own. At this point, we will focus on the record, released on the new Basel label "Clap Your Hands", which saxophonist Sarah Chaksad and producer Patrik Zosso recently founded. The nine pieces for grand piano, sampled pianos and household noises are based on solitary jazz. While the opener Maybe different comes across as a study in contemplation and melancholy, the subsequent Concession as a sparkling and at the same time sustained search for openness. According to Anicia Kohler, the songs are all about the golden rules of living together. She doesn't reveal what these are in detail, but she does hint that the record is about listening, courage and respect.
Consequently, the music on Songs from the roof not only emphatically harmonious, but also open-minded, curious and always looking for a viable path. Although tracks like More, More are able to extend their claws, the majority of the music exudes an atmosphere of commitment and reconciliation. That the Songs from the roof sound both mature and relaxed, fits perfectly into the sound puzzle created by Anicia Kohler.
Anicia Kohler: Songs from the roof. 9 pieces for grand piano, sampled pianos and household noises. Clap Your Hands CYH 0003B
id.: Die Wände hoch aufs Dach. 27 conversations about nature, art and being at home (book), 150 p., CYH, ISBN 978-3-033-08988-4
