Search - Step Across the Border - Nicolas Humbert & Werner Penzel on DVD

For Frith Fans -- Or Not

Robert Carlberg | Seattle | 12/12/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Frith has always been such a musical chameleon -- fitting into such diverse groups as Henry Cow, Skeleton Crew, Massacre, Looping Home Orchestra and his own Guitar Quartet, to name just a few -- that it's been hard to get a bead on exactly who he is. This film goes a long way toward introducing him to his fans.It's also likely to make him many new fans, as his quiet genius is evident. Humbert & Penzel's camera work tends to improvise and experiment almost as much as Frith's guitar & violin, with unattached scenes, odd transitions, rough edits and of course the gorgeous, very noir black & white. It's arty without becoming too pretentious, and has some really lovely moments when Fred's onscreen.I just wish it was in stereo, and about twice as long. You'll want to play the SATB CD right afterwards."

Small world

R. Dunlap | 06/17/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"where are the Frith fans? well, here's one!



A new online acquaintance in Japan just posted a link to a Japanese site for Japanese experimental/improvisational artists. He specifically suggested we check out Haco. I really enjoyed what I found, and replied to inquire if my firend had ever heard Fred Frith. Then I went back to Haco's site and discovered she had played piano in this film and was on the soundtrack CD!



Ha!



I hadn't listened for a long time. Saw the film years ago, it was wonderful. Also found out from Haco's page that the film was on DVD.



And here I am, ordering it and suggesting you do the same if you have any idea of who Fred Frith is and like him.

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