Peter Stampfel and The Atomic Meta Pagans: The Cambrian Explosion
Don Giovani – 22 September 2017
While probably best known for his membership of the psychedelic folk band Holy Modal Rounders, American fiddle player Peter Stampfel has remained very active with a number of solo releases and collaborations with the likes of Jeffrey Lewis. He’s also remained fairly well-aligned to the underground music scene and has been releasing a series of albums on New Jersey’s Don Giovanni Records. He referred to his last, Holiday For Strings, as “the latest stage of my Great Blindfolded Vision Quest as I blunder sideways ever sideways towards wherever the hell I think I’m going. Which tends to be some other place then I thought it was. For which I remain constantly grateful.”
That quest continues with Cambrian Explosion on which he is joined by the Atomic Meta Pagans, which among others features Hubby Jenkins (Carolina Chocolate Drops) and composer/improviser Shelley Hirsch. It was recorded in two improv-heavy sessions (mixed in Louisiana by Mark Bingham). Stampfel tells us that most are first takes and that there’s more to come. “Our target is two AM-P albums a year, which will be titled after ongoing geological eras Cambrian, Ordovician, Silurian, Devonian, etc. …My cup hath the runs. I am blessed indeed.” The album again features the lovely artwork by American cartoonist, illustrator Tony Millionaire.
Tracklisting
01. This Is My Country
02. Blue Moon
03. Mississippi Boll Weevil Blues
04. Manhattan Merry Go Round
05. Derry Tune
06. Europa (Improv.)
07. Cumberland Mountain Deer Chase
08. Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star
09. Our Boys Will Shine
10. Belvedere Street
11. Ganymede (Improv.)
12. Mostly Rump
Order via ProperMusic
Photo via Don Giovanni Records