Instant Classic, Love And Beauty Music / LP/MC/DL / 2023
On 17 November, E/I released their second album, extension/immersion, on Instant Classic (cassette) and Love And Beauty Music (vinyl). Led by composer and percussionist Szymon Pimpon Gąsiorek, the septet takes listeners on a unique sound experiment through the areas of acoustic ambient and deep improvisation.
The album features five instrumental compositions, each telling a unique story. This musical piece straddles the fine line between the intended sound and the spontaneous impulse of creation. At first glance, it is evident that E/I delves into sonic territories that surpass convention.
The project maintains cohesion by relying on ascetic song structures. Pimpon explains that E/I’s music has always focused on sound emission and intention, minimizing other aspects. Despite expanding the band’s line-up with new members such as Pauline and Nicole Hogstrand, the basic principles have been preserved, and their influence has shaped the sound.
Recording the album in a disused water tower in Brønshøj, a district of Copenhagen, was a fascinating decision. The internal acoustics of this unusual venue translate into a majestic reverberation that perfectly complements E/I’s musical explorations. The water tower at Brønshøj is not just a backdrop, but an integral part of each piece. The reverberation here lasts for about 40 seconds, giving the recording a unique character.
The spiritual and ritualistic aspect of E/I’s extension/immersion album is central to the complete musical experience. The compositions of this ensemble permeate the layer of sound intention, creating a universal practice that the listener can interpret in different ways.
The sounds, precisely selected and inscribed in the ascetic structures of the pieces, lead the listener through unique paths. This journey through sounds is akin to a ritual, where each sound holds its own significance and contributes to the overall impression.
Additionally, E/I’s music provides a space for personal meditation. The concentrated and minimalist compositions enable the listener to concentrate, inducing a state of contemplation. This allows the listener to delve into their inner self, with the sounds serving as a guide to a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.
The interpretation of this musical journey can vary, as each listener brings their own experiences and feelings to it. For some, it may be purely about sound aesthetics, while for others, it may lead to a deep meditation, resulting in peace and understanding.
E/I’s music serves not only as a listening experience but also as a tool for exploring deeper emotions and spiritual reflection. Its universal appeal allows listeners to find resonance with their own experiences and spiritual needs.
It is noteworthy that despite the geographical diversity of its members, E/I maintains its base in Copenhagen. The selection of musicians for the project is based not only on their skill but also on their commitment to creating enduring sounds. Pauline and Nicole Hogstrand, Asger Thomsen, Gianluca Elia, Michał Biel, Jędrzej Łagodziński, and frontman Szymon Pimpon Gąsiorek collaborate to produce a soundscape that fills the space with the breath of instruments and subtle nuances.
extension/immersion is an album that guides the listener through various soundscapes, unveiling layers of emotions and experiences. It is a musical masterpiece that surpasses conventional boundaries, inviting the listener on an intimate journey through the unique world of E/I. The band has successfully combined elements of ambient, improvisation, and sonic experimentation to create something extraordinary. E/I is an album that transports you to a grandiose world of sound, allowing you to break away from reality. It offers an artistic journey that leads to musical transcendence and an intimate relationship with sound. The album proves that boundaries can be crossed, resulting in something new and inspiring. It is a beautiful journey that is worth immersing oneself in more than once.
released November 17, 2023
Artur Mieczkowski
Translated by: Przemek Król