Fending/Matis

Ensembles and Artists

• Gray Code
• Zitt/Matis
• Braxton/Matis
• Brian Fending
• Jonathan Matis

The Fending/Matis duo explores the fertile territory between composition and improvisation. Their repertoire consists of pieces utilizing various degrees of precomposed structures and materials combined with improvisation in various ways. Fending and Matis have been performing together for years as members of the DC-based improv ensemble, Gray Code.

Both performers specialize in extended techniques of their instruments. Matis incorporates various tools and implements in addition to electronic signal processing to coax unusual sounds from the guitar. Fending brings a wide variety of experience with percussion instruments of the world into play on what at first appears somewhat like a typical jazz kit. Easily able to free himself of the timekeeper role, Fending is an elegant colorist informed by rigorous technique. Both players have extensive experience with ensemble deep listening and improvisation.

Their premier release is entitled Shiny & Round and is available on the Metatron Press label. Perhaps it could be called post-rock? Maybe it's free jazz? Or possibly D) none of the above? Audio recordings are available for download at 010601 and 032501.

Email

• fending@metatronpress.com
• jmatis@metatronpress.com