Light, Time and Space

Bio

Light, Time and Space is an ensemble founded and led by composer Andrej Thompson born out of a desire to explore form and structure in the context of a large collaboration of improvising musicians. Featuring some of the most exciting and adventurous improvisers in Copenhagen, this ensemble challenges the time perception of both the performer and the listener. Since 2019 they have been working towards the latest release on Gotta Let it Out Records.  A further, larger body of work will be completed at the end of 2024. 

The latest release, Light, Time and Space explores the time perception of musical performers. This octet of six different nationalities searches for linear forms of improvisation where the musical past and future are as equally important as the present. Free improvisation is paired with post-bop jazz and serialist techniques to produce a Zappaesque abandonment of genre. Juxtaposition and contrast are employed to break free of stagnation and embrace a more dynamic approach to creation. Gentle composed melodies are followed by harsh textural improvisation. Furthermore, the influence of László Moholy-Nagy’s concept of the materialisation of light can be seen in the titles; “Painting with Light” and “Colouration.” Here, contrast and colour are given precedent over form and structure. Harmonic and theoretical influences include Olivier Messiaen and Ed Sarath.