Rarely does the concept of pairing musically polar opposites pan out as both artists had intended, but the instrumental fraternization between electronic producer Max Cooper and classical composer Tom Hodge has resulted in a beautifully unique grouping of tracks. The first half of their joint effort, entitled the Fragmented Self pt. 1 EP is forward thinking music to say the least, beginning with the title track, which combines Hodge’s contemporary orchestrations with Max Cooper’s glitchy and confrontational cut up samples of the very same movements. At first listen “Fragmented Self” may come off as a bit rough, but when truly dissected is some of the more ambitious and exploratory music crafted within the last few years. Following up is “Von Der Klippe Fallen”, which again couples tech heavy warehouse elements with classical piano and a scooting bassline; while ending tune “Quantet” (also available as a free download) plays as the most melodic of the bunch, employing a dreamy synth charge behind a wall of refined strings. If your palate for music functions as the type which needs to be pushed and challenged, Fragmented Self pt. 1 should absolutely be worthy of a few jog-throughs. Stream Max Cooper & Tom Hodge’s first collaborative EP in its entirety below.
