by François Couture This eponymous album by Christian Alati (guitar), Giuseppe Ielasi (guitar), and Ruggero Radaele (percussion) came out on the French label Sonoris with very little details. The two guitarists use their instrument as an input device for electro-acoustic manipulations in a way similar to Kevin Drumm or even Keith Rowe. Radaele limits his work to various metal objects with the exception of a cymbal (in "Illustrated, When Possible") and a snare drum (in "A Suspended Booth With Translucent Panels"). The free improvisations resulting from their interactions are scaled down, slow building, and restrained. Events are sparse and dry. The rock or concrete panel pictured on the album's cover reflects the atmosphere of the music: a dry surface with aspirates. Things get a bit more busy in the last two pieces, but never does the trio equal the depth level of fellow Italian improvisers Ossatura, nor does it reache the excitement of ...I Am Surprised While It Is Actually Happening..., Alati, Ielasi, and Radaele's CD with bassist Domenico Sciajno. Still, this album is worthwhile, if only for the stone-cold sense of humor displayed in the track titles ("Text Piece"), something too rare with this very serious kind of music. Guitar – Christian Alati, Giuseppe Ielasi Percussion – Ruggero Radaele Photography By – Renato Rinaldi Recorded at home directly to two-track, February 26 & 27, 2000. digipak packaging