For years now, GoGo Penguin has been pushing the boundaries of possibility in instrumental music, especially for a group with just three members. The U.K. trio of pianist Chris Illingworth, bassist Nick Blacka, and drummer Rob Turner are preparing for the release of a new self-titled album and the first single from the project “Atomised” shows that the group’s sound continues to evolve in fascinating ways as they drift further away from clear-cut genre distinctions.
GoGo Penguin’s sound has always defied neat categorization, and yet “Atomised” may be one of their more eclectic tracks to date as they beautifully straddle the line between electronic aesthetics with acoustic instruments. At the core of the track are repeating piano arpeggio flourishes from Illingworth that take the place of a stand alone melody while Blacka and Turner provide an energizing backdrop. The composition and arrangement could have been delivered electronically, but the trio creates a truly unique product with the human element of their acoustic instruments. With their original approach, lofty skills, and diverse yet accessible sensibilities on “Atomised,” the new album from GoGo Penguin figures to be one to remember.
The new LP GoGo Penguin will be released on May 1 via Blue Note Records and is available to pre-order here.
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