Richard Reed Parry is best known as the tall multi-instrumentalist of Arcade Fire. He also happens to be a talented composer. A few months ago he collaborated with chamber ensemble yMusic to release an album called Music For Heart and Breath. That album can be taken in the most literal sense, as it’s compositions based around their own heartbeats. It’s hard to believe that no one else had previously thought of this, but it’s good for Parry’s sake.
Last night they wrapped up the first night of Basilica Soundscape with a late set that kicked off around midnight. Parry and the ymusic collective (which also included Padma Newsome – who used to tour with The National) were equipped with their own individual stethoscopes to help keep time. Unfortunately the crowd at Basilica was loud and chatty, mostly due to the openness of the factory, with the sound of the bar and outside area leaking into the venue. It was unfortunate that this happened during the set that needed, and deserved, the crowds upmost respect and quiet. I thought that putting the group at midnight was sort of questionable scheduling, and the results confirmed my beliefs. Parry continuously asked for quiet, but never got he. To his credit he maintained his cool and worked through it tremendously.
I’m sure seeing Parry and ymusic perform these pieces at a proper setting would have enhanced things that much more, but the performance was still a great sendoff to a wonderful night of music.
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