Out Now | Between Earth and Sky – Markus Stockhausen

It’s rare for this to happen. But when it does, something magical emerges, something that goes beyond composition, performance, or virtuosity. My late friend Keith Tippett called this magic “Mujician.” It happened with him, and with very few others. This quintet plays intuitive, spontaneous music, where a deep communion of spirit and intent gives rise to something on a higher, almost untouchable level.

The music on this album is indescribable. It transcends paths, paints imaginary soundscapes, and drifts into sidereal spaces, whispering of infinite possibilities. There are no patterns, no rehearsals, no preconceptions: Annie’s voice flows like a mountain spring, soaring over the arcane melodies of Markus and Fabio, while Fabrizio’s fluid, crystalline cascades of sound intertwine with the subterranean pulse of Francesco’s drums. All of this unfolds in an aura of grace that deeply moved us during the recording, aware that the music was greater than the sum of its parts. This is Dark Companion’s first double album, and one of our finest productions — something we are truly proud of.

I feel lucky and grateful to Markus and the band, who I am sure will bring this magic to a stage near you.

Max Marchini