Summvs is the fifth collaboration album between Alva Noto and Ryuichi Sakamoto. The record was released on 9 May 2011 via Raster-Noton label.
Background Summvs is the fifth and final installment in the V.I.R.U.S. series, named for the initial letters of each release in the series: Vrioon (2002), Insen (2005), Revep (2006), utp_ (2008), and Summvs. The title Summvs refers to the Latin word "summa" (eng. sum) and "versus" (eng. towards), a metaphor for the work being oriented towards a collaborative result. The album's three "Microon" compositions utilize a 16th tone interval tuning piano designed by Mexican composer Julián Carrillo. The album also features two covers of the Brian Eno song "By This River", originally composed by Eno, Dieter Moebius, and Hans-Joachim Roedelius in 1977.
Reception Mark Jarnes of The Japan Times commented "Sakamoto’s haunting piano-based arrangements — as well as his masterful understanding of silence — effortlessly coalesce with Nicolai’s digital rhythms and accompaniment, creating a work of musical art that is as provocative as it is meditative. OK, so technically because this album was pressed by German label Raster-Noton, it’s not strictly a Japanese release. However, Sakamoto’s contribution makes it a significant step forward for Japan’s avant-garde scene — not just musically, but also artistically".
Track listing
Personnel Grand Piano – Ryuichi Sakamoto Music – Alva Noto (tracks: 1 to 6, 8, 9), Ryuichi Sakamoto (tracks: 1 to 6, 8, 9) Piano – Conrad Hensel, Fernando Aponte, Yoshifumi Iio
References
External links Review by Dusted Magazine