Luis Tabuenca — Naturstudium III

Naturstudium III is an eleven-track journey in the jagged, unpredictable, and at times uneasy world of Baschet sound sculpture, which utilises elements of metal, glass, and wood- oscillating between instrument and architecture. This is a CD release on Austria’s Kairos Music

Luis Tabuenca is a Spanish composer and percussionist- he’s been active since the early 2010’s- with his output taking in works for dance, two operas, video installations, ensemble and chamber works, and solo works. For this collection, the tracks are played by himself and members of Les Percussion De Strasbourg.

Sonically, the release is fairly varied, with each of the eleven tracks having runtimes of one to nine minutes. We go from “Criptica III” with its mix of eerier droning, serrated- yet- watery texturing, and sudden seared darts. Onto “Criptica V” with its sonic map of light slices, scoring, scrubs, and circling tones- coming across like a form detailed and micro-toned improv.

Later on, we have the rolling clamouring, angularly chiming, manic swishings, and unsettling tolls of “ Criptica VI”. And the bowed unease, creepy drags, and errier high pitch tone fork of “Cripita IX”.

As a release, I can see Naturstudium III appealing to those who enjoy the works of Z'ev, and the more foreboding/ seared side of Harry Bertoia. I’ve returned to this release quite a few times, so it certainly has staying power…here’s looking forward to Naturstudium IIII.