Wavelengths
New Focus, 2026
9/10
The composer and vocalist Ken Ueno brings us 4 pieces that exist in very different forms, where microtonality, noise and timbre are experimented with in very meticulous ways.
The title track leads with just Karen Yu’s vibraphone, where space and tonality are key to the striking climate, and “…a.m…” follows with the Up:Strike Project in attendance, as the quartet emit methodical drumming and bell dynamics for nearly 20 minutes.
On the back half, “I am the uncle who sees past lives” enlists Ueno’s extended voice amid ambience, where the sounds of nighttime insects, distorted voices and distinct droning are sampled, and “Phase Patterns Of Likeness Slightly Off” exits with The Up:Strike Project’s lively vibes in a 4 part chorus that radiates harmonics and sonic waves of intrigue.
Ueno’s vision is nothing if not adventurous, where solo and larger settings illuminate a chamber and classical foundation that’s artistic and memorable.
Travels well with: Michael Hersch- Medea; Steven Ricks- Mythological Fragments