After more than a decade, the pioneering Chicago Underground Duo, featuring composer/trumpeter Rob Mazurek and percussionist Chad Taylor, have announced their return. Their new album, Hyperglyph, is set for release on August 15th via the acclaimed Chicago label International Anthem. The album marks the first new music from the long-running, influential collaboration in 11 years.
Accompanying the announcement is the lead single “Click Song,” a potent introduction to the duo’s evolved sound. The track opens with a powerful, distorted horn chant from Mazurek, underpinned by the intricate, stereo-panned polyrhythms of Taylor’s drums and bells. A cyclical synth bass line propels the piece forward with stark dynamic shifts, while Mazurek’s melody eventually breaks free into improvisation, all anchored by Taylor’s steady, resonant kick drum.
Mazurek and Taylor’s musical partnership spans nearly three decades and a multitude of projects, including Mazurek’s Exploding Star Orchestra and various Chicago Underground configurations with guitarist Jeff Parker. Their early work as a duo was foundational, bridging the worlds of avant-garde jazz and the burgeoning “post-rock” sound of the late 90s, often intersecting with collaborators in bands like Tortoise.
Hyperglyph finds the duo continuing to innovate, drawing from a vast well of influences that range from jazz visionaries like Don Cherry and Wadada Leo Smith to electronic pioneers such as Éliane Radigue and the dub mastery of King Tubby. Taylor notes the specific rhythmic inspiration for the new record: “With Hyperglyph specifically, we utilize rhythms from Nigeria, Mali, Zimbabwe and Ghana.”
Recorded over three days at International Anthem Studios in Chicago, the album reflects a deep, enduring friendship. “Rob is my longest collaborator and also one of my best friends,” says Taylor. Mazurek adds, “When it feels right we do it… This creates a kind of continuity not only in the music, but in our lives.” Hyperglyph promises to be a singular statement from two masters of creative music, a testament to their lasting connection and ceaseless sonic exploration.
“Click Song” is out now, buy/stream it here.
Hyperglyph is out August 15th, preorder/save it here.