Setting the tone with a cerebral and subversive frequency, Joachim Zoepf opens geschmacksarbeit with intricate sound design for the track titled kurzwellen No.2. In fact, each of the tracks on the record holds either the name kurzwellen or langwellen, but are allocated different numbers, not in the order one might expect, adding to the dimensionality of the concept from the outset.
geschmacksarbeit translates to English as “taste work“, whilst kurzwellen translates as “short waves“, and langwellen, naturally to “long waves“. We appreciate the cinematic nature of the opener, which features wind textures, industrial vibes and an evocative sense of darkness for over five minutes. Towards the end to the opus, we experience the more distinctive sounds of clarinettist and saxophonist Joachim Zoepf.
The follow up track, namely, kurzwellen No.3 takes on a playful energy, utilizing the key instruments from the artist, and continuing the experimental and improvised journey that we are on. Roaring undertones accompany the unique stylings of the wind instruments, and needless to say, we are hypnotized.
Next up is kurzwellen No.4, which opens with conversational elements before we bear witness to a mode melodic energy than its predecessors, although equally psychedelic in nature. Radio frequencies surprise us, whilst astral elements take us to another dimension.
Some of the sounds are akin to a dose of DMT, and needless to say, we are in awe. Vintage radio plays moments of songs including the iconic song It’s My Life, we are once again grounded back on planet Earth.
kurzwellen No.5 opens with what appears to be pizzicato elements before glitch sounds immerse us further, leading us to kurzwellen No.6 which showcases grunts and instrumental slides, reminding us of the subversive composers intention to surprise and showcase dynamics.
kurzwellen No.7 is a trip within a trip, once again bringing back the earthier elements from previous episodes. We can only imagine how extraordinary and out-of-this-world the album would be to experience in a live setting. Now we finally experience langwellen No.1, and learn that of all the post-Evan Evan reed blowers (Fuchs, Doneda, Leimgruber, Butcher, Keune, Van Bergen, Wissell), Joachim Zoepf is probably one of the one of the least recorded, despite the remarkable list of his recordings with recordings with first-rate improvisers.
We are grateful for the cosmic journey that the artist takes us on, and the expansive nature of his soundscape and mind-blowing skillset as he demonstrates mastery of his instruments.
langwellen No.2 takes on a more melodic vibe, allowing us some respite, although equally staying true to the wider concept of the record. We experience what sounds like fire burning, which once again showcases an additional uniqueness to the already cohesive tapestry of sound that Joachim Zoepf is creating.
langwellen No.3 opens with a textured rising energy, lending itself to a more meditative vibe, as we are plunged into what feels like an ancient civilisation. That is what is great about the work of Joachim Zoepf, it feels like we are on a trip through space and time.
Next is langwellen No.4 which showcases a more peaceful approach too with a higher timbre, and we love the immersive nature of the piece with cyber detailing teasing a sense of futurism whilst langwellen No.5 shows the more experimental side of the composer, tapping into his playful energy with bold and dynamic texturing, albeit with a minimalist vibe.
langwellen No.6 holds true to the minimalist energy of the previous piece, although teasing wider elements, as the composer chooses to evoke a broad range of emotions, providing what feels like catharsis to himself and his audience. The tech inspired finale of the track only teases what is to come!
langwellen No.7 showcases a charming melody, demonstrating the more classically inclined nature of the visionary composer. We feel at home with the layered instrumental and appreciate his undeniable skillset. The anticipation build as if we are in a movie.
For the finale, langwellen No.8, we are reminded of all of the previous elements, fusing the melodic nature, with the progressive tech. Joachim Zoepf ingenuity stands strong with the outro, and we are reminded of why we first fell in love with the artist. With a print run of just one hundred copies, geschmacksarbeit is available to purchase or download via BandCamp!