Holger Czukay

Inspired by "non-existing atmospheric disturbance" films, Motion Pictures is actually Holger Czukay's quasi-sequel to Movies, his classic 1979 LP. Long recognized as perhaps the oddest and most adventurously minded member of Can, Czukay has created a broad solo catalogue of unfamiliar, adjunct music with a sorcerer's touch. Besides his trusty bass, Czukay has a fascination with--and a master's understanding of--the studio as instrument. His most provocative audio collages are designed via tape splicing, imaginative mixing, and (in the final stage) physical production.

While not as cinematic in nature as Movies, Motion Pictures benefits from the more undeniably ethnic sensibilities of stalwart colleagues Jah Wobble, Jaki Liebezeit, Michael Karoli, and a gaggle of others. Czukay is the master technician, however. The arcane, Middle Eastern patina and atmospheric tones on "Radio in an Hourglass" are unmistakably devised by the same mysterious hand that dabbled with notions of sound on records with David Sylvian, Phew, and the seminal Can. Czukay remains a singular talent. (Amg)