Insect Life

Insect Life debuts on 577 Records with a Cosmic, Creative, Art-Driven Opus — Out November 7th. Avant-garde experimental ensemble Insect Life is set to release their self-titled debut album, Insect Life. The album delivers a sound that is raw, wild, and authentic, blending improvisation, orchestral textures, and dynamic interplay into an immersive, art-driven experience. There’s something hypnotic about the whole listening experience, drawing the listener into its cosmic, abstract world. 

Born from weekly collaborative sessions at Ben Goldberg’s house, Insect Life is an Oakland-based experimental ensemble dedicated to pushing the boundaries of improvised music. The band emphasizes spontaneity, orchestral cohesion, and an adventurous sonic palette that fuses avant-garde and abstract elements. Over time, they developed a distinctive collective approach, creating an instant orchestral sound where cello and drums interact with winds, driving rhythm and texture in unexpected, groovy, and abstract directions. The result is a cosmic, dynamic, and innovative sound—modern yet deeply rooted in the old-school spirit of improvisation.

Enhancing the record’s depth, Zachary James Watkins (Black Spirituals, Foreign/Domestic) contributes remixes as a guest member for this album, complementing the ensemble’s expansive sonic landscape.
This release marks Insect Life’s debut on 577 Records, featuring Gerald Cleaver—a guest member of the band for this album. A longtime collaborator with the label, Cleaver has released five albums as a leader and countless more as co-leader or featured artist. With its daring, cohesive sound, Insect Life is poised to become a standout entry in 577 Records’ catalog.