Fessenden

Joshua Convey, Stephen Fiehn, and Steven Hess performed as Fessenden during 2004-2009. This Chicago/New York-based electro-acoustic improv trio creates distinct, atmospheric and progressive sound collages, at times weaving quietly subtle textures against harsh moments of volume, or low hums and buzzes against crisp percussion, while drones interplay with staccato chords. Each performance by this trio displays a delicate balance of acoustic and electronic sounds. Fessenden's approach to recording and releasing sound varies, yet consistently reflects the subtle movement within sessions. Fessenden collaborated with UK drone artist Keith Berry to create Bleu:resultat (Chat Blanc) a 111-numbered, limited 3-inch. Both Capture/Create (Entr'acte Records), comprised of two improvised pieces, and Preview EP (Stasisfield), comprised of three tracks from a series of improvisations, were recorded direct to minidisk, documenting the space and tension of their live performances. Vital Weekly referred to Inside the Ice Factory (Utech Records) as "contemplative music that combines the best of improvised music, real instruments and yet manages to sound so micro-sound."