Always The Same, Never The Same
by ensemble 0
 
"Music that's immediately attractive and persistently elusive" 
Wire magazine
 
"Regenerative ambience that bounds with lightness and beauty, and sweetness and peace"
Tiny Mix Tapes
 
The Brussels-based members of ensemble 0 (Jean-François Brohée, Florent Garnier and Sylvain Chauveau) release their stunningly beautiful new album Always The Same, Never The Same comprising nine delicate acoustic compositions, varying in pace and mood featuring harmonium, organ, piano, guitar, prepared guitar and percussion.
 
ensemble 0 always write together during rehearsals; no song is thought of before these rehearsal moments, allowing for dynamic exploration of rich musical possibilities. The Brussels trio, embarked on the journey of creating their latest album following the success of their debut release in 2018. Through collaborative composition and organic creation during rehearsal sessions, the trio developed each track with meticulous attention to detail. Alongside parenthood and the COVID-19 pandemic, the trio remained dedicated to their craft, resulting in a record that reflects three and a half years of growth and resilience.
 
Described by the ensemble as music without pathos, the mood of the album is characterised by its lightness, delicacy, and rhythmic groove. It's a kind of real 'chamber music', made possible by the exclusive use of acoustic instruments and no amplification. With a focus on repetition and variation, each piece offers a unique journey for listeners. Tracks such as Poc a poc and Huntat's olal exemplify the album's ethos, blending playful energy with moments of tranquillity and peace. The album's title encapsulates the spirit of ensemble 0's music, highlighting their ability to breathe life into familiar motifs while delivering a captivating listening experience.
 
The titles of the pieces on the new album are deliberately in several languages (French, Japanese, Turkish, Mayan, Catalan). In order to gently move away from the international dominance of the English language the ensemble members decided to turn a little more to their own language or to languages that are close to their hearts because of their loved ones or their passions.
 
This latest album represents a continuation of their artistic vision established in previous projects. As a collective that plays pieces by contemporary composers as well as their original compositions, the ensemble is committed to a diverse repertoire that reflects their interest in pushing the boundaries of acoustic music. With two distinct trios operating under the ensemble 0 moniker, each group brings its unique aesthetic to the table. This Brussels trio, characterised by its focus on technical simplicity and repetition, finds continuity with their debut record while embracing new ideas and creative directions: Always the same, never the same.
 
Always The Same, Never The Same is also available as a digital download (with a pdf booklet of the album art) via our Bandcamp shop, streaming via Bandcamp and Apple Music.

On this record, ensemble 0 was Jean-François Brohée, Sylvain Chauveau & Florent Garnier
 
Track listing:
1. Tsuboniwa
2. Poc a poc
3. Mızmız
4. Huntat’s olal
5. Ta ténuité tente de se défaire de la constante gravitationnelle 
6. Brillant Night Shop
7. Au fond rien n’a d’importance, il suffit de se laisser aller et le temps vous soulève comme l’eau 
8. Outro
9. Girift   
 
Total Timing 43’42”            
        
 
Music composed and performed by ensemble 0
Jean-François Brohée (prepared guitar, percussion, organ, guitar), Florent Garnier (percussion, harmonium, organ, piano) & Sylvain Chauveau (guitar, percussion, harmonium, piano)
 
Recorded at La Savonnerie, Brussels (Belgium), by Daniel Bleikolm
Mixed at La Savonnerie by Daniel Bleikolm & ensemble 0
Mastered at Stille & Klang by David Stalling
Graphic design by Doreen Kennedy
CD project coordinated by Anthony Kelly & David Stalling
 
ensemble 0 wish to thank Emmanuelle Nizou, La Bellone - Maison du spectacle, l’Axoso, Pierre-Marc Michel, Nicolas Michamblé & Fabrice Detry
 
First edition of 500 published by Farpoint Recordings, August 15th 2024
 
Farpoint Catalogue Number: fp092
 
all rights reserved
 
ensemble 0 is a collective of musicians dedicated to exploring the intersections of contemporary composition and improvisation. With a fluid line up and a commitment to collaboration, the ensemble thrives on pushing the boundaries of acoustic music while staying true to the essence of chamber music. 
                       
www.ensemble0.com