15 Nov, 2008
Powerplant is a multimedia performance ensemble lead by Joby Burgess, accompanied by Matthew Fairclough on live electronics and Kathy Hinde delivering live visuals. The concert featured two major multi-media commissions. First was an ICIA’s commission piece from Gabriel Prokofiev created especially for Powerplant. Prokofiev composed for found objects (oil drums, Nigerian Fanta bottles, plastic bags and a wooden pallet) in a musical performance woven together with live electronics and film to explore social themes and global resonances.
The second premier was a piece by British composer and musician Graham Fitkin, titled Chain of Command. Fitkin’s piece was constructed with sampled and cut-up sound materials captured from press conferences of the Bush administration, triggered by Burgess on midi-marimba. Other works performed included Reich’s Electric Counterpoint and covers of electronic dance music pioneers Kraftwerk.