GAISTER: A Unique Collaboration of Experimental Sounds and Cultural Synergy
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The trio GAISTER, consisting of soprano vocalist Olivia Salvadori, drummer Akihide Monna of Bo Ningen, and multi-instrumentalist Coby Sey, presents a remarkable fusion of genres and cultures on their self-titled album, set for release on November 1, 2024, via AD 93. The album represents a blend of operatic vocals, experimental drumming, and atmospheric soundscapes, creating a sonic experience that pushes the boundaries of traditional music forms. By drawing inspiration from their distinct backgrounds in Italian, Japanese, and British music, the trio cultivates an atmosphere that bridges classical, experimental, and avant-garde influences.
The origins of GAISTER’s collaboration date back to 2016 when Sey and Salvadori crossed paths at various performances in London. In 2017, Sey joined Salvadori’s artistic collective Tutto Questo Sentire during a residency in Tuscany, which laid the foundation for their musical partnership. The trio eventually formed after Akihide Monna joined them in 2019, performing together at the Camden Art Centre in London. The synergy between the three musicians—each from diverse backgrounds—results in an entirely new creative entity, brought to life in their Icelandic recording sessions at Greenhouse Studios.
The essence of GAISTER lies in its exploration of nature and sound. The trio allows the environment and natural elements to guide their musical choices, with instruments and rhythms mirroring the organic world. As Akihide Monna describes, the sound emerged naturally, like “pulling at each other’s hearts and minds.” This connection is evident in the album’s fluid structure, which reflects a journey of continuous evolution rather than distinct tracks, reminiscent of the work of experimental artists such as Tirzah and Laurel Halo, both of whom have collaborated with Coby Sey in the past.
The album’s title, Gaister, is derived from the German word Geist, meaning spirit. It encapsulates the purity and essence of the trio’s collaboration, blending their distinct languages and musical identities into something entirely original. Olivia Salvadori’s operatic voice weaves effortlessly with Sey’s melodies and Monna’s drumming, creating a sonic landscape that is as cohesive as it is experimental. The trio’s commitment to conversation and collaboration ensures that the album flows as a unified piece, drawing the listener into a meditative yet dynamic sound experience that echoes the exploratory spirit of artists like Mica Levi and the London Contemporary Orchestra.
Learn more about Coby Sey