Platanus
Ambiances Magnétiques, 2026
8/10
The multi-instrumentalist Allison Cameron and trombonist Scott Thomson come together for 3 involved tracks that are dedicated to the memory of Nobuo Kubota, where improvisation is turned into a refined science.
“Taproot” opens with manipulated sounds, where Thomson’s distinct trombone is met with Cameron’s aberrant synth gestures for 18+ minutes of exploration.
“Bark” occupies the middle spot and blends the soulful trombone with warm keys and plenty of atypical noises via the alluring and unpredictable delivery.
“Limbing” exits and carries a nearly mechanical spirit before sci-fi movements and a ‘found object’ presence mesmerizes us with both buzzing and shuffling ideas.
This is Thomson and Cameron’s first outing in this duo setting, and it yields an interplay that floats, wobbles and drifts somewhere between slumber and wakefulness, firm and calm and is charming in its unconventional approach.
Travels well with: David Occhipinti- Looking Glass; Stranger Still- We Might Not Tell Everyone This