Jan Steele / John Cage
Voices and Instruments
Antilles Records (US) 1976
AN 7031 (LP) Original pressing.
sleeve : VG+(SRW, WC, some wear on edge and corner, slightly dirts, color-faded.)
media : EX-/EX-(some light noises.)
A split album by Jan Steele and John Cage, released in 1976 on Brian Eno’s Obscure label. The album features compositions by both artists based on the theme of "voice and instruments." Side A, by Jan Steele, includes three tracks featuring musicians such as Fred Frith, Stuart Jones, Kevin Edwards, and Steve Beresford, with vocals by Janet Sherbourne. Steele himself plays piano on A3. The music creates a calm, shadowy soundscape with a unique floating quality that is simply exquisite. Side B, by John Cage, includes one of Cage's most ambient-interpretable piano pieces, performed by Richard Bernas, along with vocal tracks by Robert Wyatt and Carla Bley. The chanting-like melodies, influenced by the Zen philosophy that inspired Cage, are highly intriguing. A highly recommended album throughout. Original US pressing.
A1: All Day
B4: Forever and Sunsmell
B5: In a Landscape