Amazing 12-string guitarist James Blackshaw has been noted for his faultless playing and songwriting techniques and despite still being in his 20s has already been compared to the likes of Bert Jansch, Robbie Basho, John Fahey, Jack Rose, and Leo Kottke.

Initially inspired by the guitarists of the 60’s Takoma label to teach himself fingerpicking, James Blackshaw writes long-form pieces primarily for solo 12-string guitar and piano that are heavily influenced by minimalist composers and European classical music and which use drones, overtones and repeating patterns alongside a strong inclination for melody to create instrumental music that is both intelligent, hypnotic and emotionally charged.

Now Sprawl has invited James to explore his piano work and commissioned him to compose a piece for piano and small mixed ensemble, string, wind instruments, piano and tuned percussion.

Inspired by the works of Christopher Hobbs, Cornelius Cardew, William Burroughs and Brian Eno and Sprawl's Sonic Recycler Festival where James Blackshaw performed in 2009, this composition is made entirely from found, second-hand pre-existing sheet music, sourced from charity shops, the internet or specialist bookshops. Plunderphonics of a different kind! Imagine a glorious symphony of folk music, Jazz and classical pieces brought together by unique musical mind.

 

Support comes from Russell Callow creating a sonic collage based on recordings of many things sacred. He has become interested in the hypnotic state that all manners of religious people get into, through for example speech, chant and music. His collage looks at ways in which he can adapt, explore or subvert this state of trance.

Russell's work typically includes analogue and digital recordings, found sound, percussion, guitar, and electronics in one way or another. His collages run from the narrative to the purely impressionistic. Callow is also a member of the guitar trio I See The Future Trio as well as Roping Arcs and 645 Action! His interest in improvisation sees him participating with Unknown Devices and he is the founder of Ten Ton Tentet.

 

details:

date: Friday 26th March 2010
doors: 8pm
ticket price: £9 in advance >> BUY TICKETS and £11 on the door

VENUE:
Cafe OTO
18 - 22 Ashwin Street
Dalston, London, E8 3DL
cafeoto.co.uk