To celebrate the release of The Heraclitean Two-Step, etc., Evan Parker sat down with composer, producer, and sound designer Matt Wright for a revealing and wide-ranging interview. This incredible Ramsgate Radio feature offers an intimate glimpse into Parker’s process, philosophy, and the creative journey behind this monumental box set.

Spanning four discs, with three recorded at Ramsgate’s Arco Barco / Ramsgate Radio Studios by Filipe Gomes, The Heraclitean Two-Step, etc. is a comprehensive reflection on Parker’s decades-long career. The interview dives deep into the origins of the project, beginning with a 1994 solo recording in a Unitarian Chapel in Warwick. Parker describes how this singular 20-minute piece, shaped by the chapel’s rich acoustics, lingered as an unresolved question for years before becoming the foundation for his current work.

The interview highlights Parker’s collaborations, emphasising the importance of Arco Barco’s acoustics and the studio’s role as an active participant in the recordings. Wright’s thoughtful questions explore themes of freedom, structure, and the role of space in Parker’s music. Together, they reflect on the philosophical framework of the project, inspired by Heraclitus’ concept that “you cannot step in the same river twice.”

This conversation also delves into the broader scope of the box set, including curated texts, interviews, and visual collages that accompany the music. These elements provide historical and personal context, adding depth to the release and showcasing Parker’s ability to transcend traditional boundaries between music and other art forms—thoughtfully and beautifully brought together by the incredible False Walls record label.

Marking this release with such a rich and engaging discussion, we invite listeners to step beyond the music and into the heart of its creation. The Heraclitean Two-Step, etc. is a mesmerising collection of recordings and a dynamic conversation about time, memory, and the unending pursuit of artistic discovery. For fans of experimental music and improvisation, this interview and release stand as a testament to Parker’s enduring influence and creativity.

Analysis

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