Abstract electronics in the realm of the avant-garde is the forte of Russian sound artist Alexei Borisov. Two online albums feature live performances of this creative and sometimes perplexing underground figure.

The appropriately titled Abstractionist features two lengthy tracks of noise and tones. Often the sounds appears to have no real connection and are seemingly random although I suspect this is not the case. “Artworks” is the more abtract piece and requires your full undivided attention to appreciate it. However “Cakeshop” is a little more accessible. A melody can barely be deciphered among the odd electronic drone but even this is soon lost is a bewlidering by fascinating collage of electronics and found sound. This is a challenging but rewarding listen.

Live in Kaliningrad is an hour plus live performance divided into 4 parts. The artist uses fragments of his past recordings, alters them through a laptop and other devices then adds elements of voice, found sounds and other effects. The results remains interesting throughout the perfomance although again it is challenging and may confuse those who are looking for tone and structure. Personally I find it exhilarating when listened to in an quiet and uninterupted environment. My friends often ask me what I see in abstract music such as this. What I see is a way to look at the world in ways I haven’t been able to before. Our consumer society has taught us to accept music as background noise or to view it as a corporate product to use and discard. I urge you to find a quiet room, put on your headphones, and listen to this or one of the other experimental music albums you can find here and give yourself an truly revolutionary experience.

Abstractionist is available in 320kbps MP3 while Live in Kaliningrad is in 192 kbps. If you enjoy the music, you can find more information about his CDs and live shows from his MySpace page.

Download
Abstractionist
Live in Kaliningrad