Exploring Tu-Ner’s “T-1 Contact Information” Album: An Unconventional Journey
Tu-Ner’s double album “T-1 Contact Information”—a compelling mix of jazz, prog, and experimental sounds that defies categorisation. Featuring the extraordinary talents of Pat Mastelotto, Markus Reuter, and Trey Gunn, this 2-CD set spans almost two hours of intricate, genre-blurring music.
let’s take a closer look at the musicians who make Tu-Ner such a unique ensemble.
Pat Mastelotto
Pat is a versatile drummer who has spent a lifetime crossing musical genres, from pop to prog, electronica, and world music. Some notable credits include Mr. Mister, XTC, David Sylvian, The Rembrandts, and Kimmo Pohjonen. For the past 25 years, he’s been a key member of King Crimson and Stick Men.
Markus Reuter
A gifted composer, guitarist, and producer, Markus Reuter began his journey as a composer before studying Robert Fripp’s Guitar Craft, mastering the Chapman Stick, and transitioning to the U8 Touch Guitar. His soundscapes and inventive guitar work give Tu-Ner’s music its distinctive edge.
Trey Gunn
Trey Gunn, a virtuoso on the Warr guitar, has made an indelible mark on progressive music. His impressive resume includes collaborations with King Crimson, Brian Eno, David Sylvian, Robert Fripp, Happy Rhodes, Puscifer, Tool, and John Paul Jones. His fretless Warr guitar adds rich textures to Tu-Ner’s sound.
“T-1 Contact Information” is a challenging and rewarding listen, offering an eclectic blend of influences ranging from King Crimson and Frank Zappa to Massive Attack and Miles Davis. Here’s a closer look at what each disc brings to the table.
Disc 1
Croin (14:45): A lengthy opener that envelops you in complex rhythms, weaving guitar lines, and deep bass grooves. Initially challenging, it becomes more accessible with each listen and quickly emerges as a favorite.
31 (8:00): With intricate layers of guitar, bass, and drums, this track keeps listeners on their toes.
Apple Turtle (8:00): Another 8-minute journey that seamlessly blends ambient soundscapes with tight instrumental interplay.
5 (5:00): A shorter yet compelling composition.
Contact Information (23:34): The title track takes you on a 23-minute musical holiday, offering a dynamic mix of jazz, prog, and ambient textures.
Disc 2
11 (11:00): Opens the second disc with a sprawling exploration of rhythm and melody.
Forcibly Taken Into the Future (22:37): A 22-minute epic that shifts and evolves, reflecting the band’s innovative spirit.
Moses (10:00): Captivates with its ambient feel while maintaining a progressive edge.
Poodles (10:00): Closes the album on a high note, merging intricate instrumentation with otherworldly soundscapes.
“T-1 Contact Information” is a journey that rewards repeated listening. Each track reveals new layers and nuances, offering a rich, multi-dimensional experience. While initially challenging, the album grows on you with every spin, much like an unexplored buffet that leaves you wanting more.
For those seeking something fresh and unconventional, this album is well worth the plunge. Whether you’re into jazz, prog, or fusion, Tu-Ner’s “T-1 Contact Information” offers a world of discovery. If you’re curious to step outside your comfort zone, this is a journey worth taking.
Phil Aston, Now Spinning Magazine
