Legendary drummer Morgan Ågren has
released his debut solo LP record, “Batterie Deluxe.”
Legendary drummer Morgan Ågren has
released his debut solo LP record, “Batterie Deluxe.” The
full-length record comprises 14 original tracks for an approximate
total listening time of 50 minutes. It has been published as an
independent release outside the control and influence of the
corporate music industry, bearing a copyright at outlets such as
Amazon.com which reads, “2014 Morgan Records not the cars.” An
eclectic and intriguing kaleidoscope of sonic textures, “Batterie
Deluxe” by Morgan Ågren is one of those records the music world
has been waiting to hear for years.
Swedish-born Ågren's “Batterie
Deluxe” combines traditional instrumentation with digital effects
and studio production for a perfectly balanced sound that is
exceptionally rare to find. His blend of music styles on the record
includes elements of modern acid jazz, psychedelia, electronica,
alternative rock, heavy metal, traditional music from Indian and
Mediterranean cultures, and yet more.
While these contrasts may seem
impossible to reconcile, Ågren's first solo album dovetails these
styles in a way that must be heard to be believed. What is more, each
track is equally fascinating and evocative, each bringing a
refreshingly new sound and tone to follow the last. As Ågren's own
description of the record aptly reads, “'Batterie Deluxe' is not at
all a typical 'drummer's release.'”
In addition to the considerable skills
of Ågren himself, “Batterie Deluxe” also features guest
appearances by Devin
Townsend and Fredrik Thordendal of Meshuggah, violinist Neyveli
Radhakrishna, keyboardist Mats Öberg, and still more.
Morgan Ågren is the subject and focus
of US filmmaker Carl King's 2014 documentary, “Morgan Ågren's
Conundrum: A Percussive Misadventure.” Ågren has been played drums
since the age of four and has won Grammy Awards on both sides of the
Atlantic Ocean. He has performed, worked, or been professionally
associated with such names as Steve Vai, Frank Zappa, Denny Walley
(Captain Beefheart, Tom Waits) and a host of others.
Frank Zappa said of Ågren's drumming,
“He played unbelievably, just unbelievably.”
Steve Vai later echoed Zappa's
enthusiasm: “I am stunned, these guys have an extraordinary amount
of talent.”
Bill Bruford of Yes and King Crimson
said Ågren was possessed of “Remarkable technical expertise and
playing skills.”
Gavin Harrison, also of King Crimson,
said, “Morgan is quite simply one of the most interesting and
exciting drummers I've ever heard. Rhythmically advanced and musical
too. A rare combination of modern and classic.”
Nothing more can describe this
one-of-a-kind wonder of an album without actually listening to it.
“Batterie Deluxe” by Morgan Ågren
is available online worldwide. Audiophiles everywhere should get in
early. Very, very early.
-S. McCauley
Lead Press Release Writer
www.MondoTunes.com
“Batterie Deluxe” by Morgan
Ågren –
“Morgan Ågren's Conundrum: A
Percussive Misadventure” movie trailer –
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