004 by Zenekar

This recording is a sample of Zenekar's two set performance in the BEMAC Unplugged series at the Queensland Multicultural Centre in May, 2023.

The group is comprised of notable improvising musicians who are current or former members of groups such as Fourplay, Monsieur Camembert, Doch, Trichotomy, Greshka, Seventh Chapter, The Francis Wolves and Estampa.

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'Lament for a Holiday Tango' is a musical excursion in not actually going anywhere due to ill health, COVID lockdowns and cancellations. A nostalgia tinged tango seemed an apt vehicle for this trip to nowhere. Listen out for the happy ending!

'Dark Waltz' is not likely to be added to Andre Rieu’s setlist anytime soon. On first rehearsal, John remarked …. “It’s hard to work out exactly the tonality of this”. Which supports the intention of creating a blurry and murky musical atmosphere over a lilting, but at times ambiguous, three steps to the bar feel.

'Dirge & Dance' (aka 'Dirgy Dancing') moves from a lush and mournful Gypsy funeral march to a raucous Polka conjuring up images of hellish carnival character related nightmares. A particular highlight is the scream of delight from an audience member just at the end of the clarinet solo... beautifully in tune!

zenekarmjusic.com

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1. Lament for a Holiday Tango (D. Kemp)
2. Dorohoi Khusidl (Strom)
3. Serbian Racenica (Traditional arranged by Catharina Kemp)
4. Dark Waltz (D. Kemp)
5. Dirge and Dance (D. Kemp)
6. Libertango (Piazzolla)

Capturing Meanjin's vibrant jazz scene one gig at a time.


A 4000 Records initiative.


Artwork by Ellena Ramsay.

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