Tube Mouth Bow String

Nick Didkovsky
Pogus Productions

Australia: Indie CDs

Web: http://www.indie-cds.com

Nick Didkovsky is primarily known for being the central figure of the US avant-rock ensemble Doctor Nerve. While this band has achieved quite notable success Didkovsky has discussed in various interviews his desire to explore less commercial and more experimental work, hence Tube Mouth Bow String.

This is an interesting exploration of the use of electric guitar with a string quartet and supplemented with computers and electronica. It is not as experimental and difficult as many of the other titles distributed by Pogus. Indeed it has a certain addictive quality which you get into after many listenings, this still requires an open minded view to music and a willingness to explore beyond the mainstream. However, it is a choice which will be well rewarded.

Each of the tracks is quite unique and beautifully recorded. In my mind the most impressive is track 3: Tube Mouth Bow String which is 12.27 long and really develops the texture of Didkovsky’s work, its uses of strings, pedals and talk boxes accentuate the beauty and the presence of the piece. The other pieces are all unique in their own right and offered textured and creative explorations.

I especially like CD insert which is rich with background and notes that are quite useful for truly appreciating the tracks, it even includes Web addresses which can assist listeners enrich their experience of this music and explore further into new territory.

This is a fascinating exploration of the interaction between the precision of computers and electronica and the spontaneity of instruments such as guitars and strings, it is a rewarding experience if you spend some time with it.