September 10, 2022
Doors: 7:30PM
Show: 8:00PM
Named after Thollem’s March release on Astral Spirits Records, Obstacle Illusion live is ACVilla’s digital films running behind Thollem’s solo synth performance. Combining the two artists’ works in this way plays with our personal and collective consciousness through visual and sonic allegories, riddles and recontextualizations. “Together the duo weave an aural and visual tapestry to dazzle the senses.” (The Paper, Albuquerque)
The combination of piano and drums in this duo of internationally renowned serial collaborator Thollem and consummate sonic adventurer Joe Sorbara makes for a musical experience not to be missed.
Thollem is a perpetually traveling pianist, keyboardist and composer. He’s spent most of his life living on the road throughout North America and Europe. His work is ever-changing, evolving and responding to the times and his experiences, both as a soloist and in collaboration with hundreds of artists across idioms and disciplines. “Thollem displays a chameleonic ability to adapt to suit whatever musical context presents itself…there is more than one way to access the infinite.” (Daniel Spicer, The Wire)
Since 2008, ACVilla has lived as a peripatetic photographer, videographer and visual artist. She focuses her camera on the nuances that define the character of the fleeting yet eternal present moment as well as the dynamics of the world at large. Her work is shown throughout the US and Europe in DIY spaces, museums, galleries, schools and universities. ACVilla is “the kind of fiercely independent artist the world needs more of.” (LiveEyeTV)
Canadian drummer and percussionist Joe Sorbara has spent more than two decades developing a reputation as an imaginative and dedicated performer, composer, improviser, organiser, writer, and educator. A consummate sonic adventurer, Sorbara’s music draws from a vast array of influences. He is equally comfortable playing jazz, freely improvised music, indie rock, and chamber music, but most at home playing them all at the same time. He has performed and recorded with Ken Aldcroft, Jared Burrows, Anthony Braxton, Nikita Carter, Paul Dutton, François Houle, Germaine Liu, Evan Parker, Allen Ravenstine, Clyde Reed, and Friendly Rich, among many many others. His own projects and ongoing collaborations include a Toronto-based sextet and a Vancouver-based quartet as well as Never Was, The Imperative, Other Foot First, Reliable Parts, My Misshapen Ear, and the Imaginary Percussion Ensemble.
Links & Social Media
Thollem
www.thollem.com/obstacleillusion
www.facebook.com/thollemmcdonas
www.instagram.com/thollemthollem
ACVilla
www.instagram.com/acvilla_visions
Joe Sorbara
