The Hyperstring Project

Jon Rose is an unusual performer. Not only is he a virtuoso violinist, but his wicked sense of humor infuses his albums with a joie de vivre that transforms otherwise strangely avant-garde sensibilities into wonderfully colorful collages of acrobatic manipulations. Rose favors concept albums, and this one is no exception. His Hyperstring Project uses three Midi controllers to create a sort of counterpoint among the elements. Rose is a uniquely stunning player by himself, as anyone who has heard him live can attest. He is even more effective when he manipulates sound, transforming his fluid strings into a mini-orchestra. There are really no precedents for his style, and, thankfully, he avoids cute theatrics that might compromise his musical accomplishments. Using a second tenor violin (pitched an octave below normal), feedback, distorted pedal, an amplified bow, and a "whipolin" (a seven-string "disemboweled cello fitted with a variety of not exactly centered hurdy gurdy-type wheels"), Rose packs a powerful punch with variety and flair to spare.