Released to highly positive reviews in 2007, Slope was the debut album from Steve Jansen (Japan / Rain Tree Crow).
Exhibiting a bold combination of inventive rhythms, intricate programming and emotive vocal performances, the album features guest contributions from an impressive line-up including David Sylvian, Tim Elsenburg (Sweet Billy Pilgrim), Joan Wasser (Joan As Policewoman), Thomas Feiner, Anja Garbarek, Nina Kinert, and Theo Travis.
As Jansen explains, “With Slope, I approached composition attempting to avoid chord and song structures and the usual familiar building blocks. Instead, in an attempt to deviate from my own trappings as a musician, I wanted to piece together unrelated sounds, music samples, rhythms and ‘events’.”
This triple cd digisleeve version comprises the original album plus remixes, live recordings and instrumental soundtracks.
‘A mixture of exquisite, groove-based soundscapes and introspective torch songs.’ – The Guardian
‘A hugely impressive debut.’ – The Wire
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Steve Jansen, regarded as one of the most original and tasteful drummers of his generation, has performed with Japan, Rain Tree Crow and Nine Horses, as well as contributing to work by Ryuichi Sakamoto, David Torn, Annie Lennox and many others.