Manuel Gottsching performs his seminal uni-composition from 1981, "E2-E4". A rare occurence, despite approaching a three decade history. In fact, the only time he has chosen to play "E2-E4" in its entirety - and for a very fortunate Japanese audience - to commemorate the 25th anniversary in 2006. To make this release equally special, it has been produced as a limited edition of just 3000.
Close followers of Gottsching will know most of the above so I'll focus the rest of this review on the product.

Firstly, Gottsching has evolved the original composition in subtle ways that do not interfere with the original. Rather, they serve to enhance this enchanting piece of music. There are samples from the original recording combined with new surface melodies and cross rhythms, all framed within the existing structure. If you are familiar with the 1981 recording, this immediately becomes evident when you listen to the CD.
The DVD contains the same performance, plus a short 4min excerpt, depicting Gottsching signing autographs and sightseeing the country. Directed by Myriam Abeillon, the camerawork is very different to most music videos. It focuses almost exclusively on Gottsching performing "E2-E4" for the first time. The effect is to create a very intimate perspective of the music. The film really takes off when Gottsching begins to play his guitar on top of the alternating two chord structure that has now embedded itself in your head. Atmosphere shots of the crowd only appear towards the end, showing a sea of blissed out faces gently dancing in unison as dawn begins to break over Mt. Fuji. Pure magic.

Presented in a DVD booklet housing both discs and a 16-pg booklet and Japanese translation insert, this is a well produced package that serious collectors would be proud to own. The cover art riffs on the original chess board design; much like newer depictions of the infamous Burberry check; thereby keeping it fresh and relevant.
The booklet features sections on the background to "E2-E4", the performance at Metamorphose festival, a timeline biography, equipment breakdown and finally, a chronological discography. In short, everything you need to know about this very modest and intriguing musician.

In the late 80s, a whole generation of Manhattanites danced to "E2-E4" at the Paradise Garage. DJ, Larry Levan would play the record at the beginning of his set, and often towards the end of a lengthy eight hour marathon. Consequently, many of the dance music producers absorbed this unique music and it has propogated its DNA througout contemporary dance music. This is but one example of the huge influence "E2-E4" has enjoyed on our lives. Long may it continue.

metamorphoseのライブがばっちり再現されています。

音も格段によくなっている気がします。

何度聞いても新しい音が聞こえてくるそんな深いアルバムです。

真夜中に深く潜りたい時に最適。