Year: 2006
Genre: Modern Classical, Experimental, Minimal, Ambient

Despite coming from disciplines which differ markedly on the surface, Alva Noto (aka Carsten Nicolai; Raster Noton label boss) and Ryuichi Sakamoto have nonetheless fused their talents to produce a body of work which is both groundbreaking and achingly beautiful. Spearheading the recent bloom of piano music which called upon digital subtleties to massage the deceptively simple melodies into something more satisfying, Alva Noto and Ryuichi Sakamoto collaborated on the likes of 'Vrioon', 'Revep' and 'Insen' - bringing the ivory and silicon together with genuine grace and aplomb. With Raster Noton's faultless reputation for packaging well maintained, this gorgeous DVD and book is the first such release for the label and will become a full-fat prized possession in any music lovers collection. Recorded in 2005 and 2006 whilst touring the 'Insen' album, 'Insen Live' sees the intricate tapestry of their recorded work writ large in the live arena - with what could outwardly be an austere and clinical display becoming a warm and inclusive event. With Sakamoto poised behind the keys and Noto ensconced in a web of machines, the backing screen flourishes with throbbing lights which match the brittle electronics and enveloping Cage-esque ivories. Rendered in 5.1 Dolby Surround Sound, unreleased tracks such as 'Xerox' and 'Barco' jump from the screen with clarity and grace - making this a must for Raster Noton heads and newcomers alike. Wrapped in a sleeve which is a work of art in itself and beefed out with a photo-rich book that deserves its own ISBN, 'Insen Live' is given extra appeal through interviews with the duo and a selection of alternative views and angles. Trust us; this is the sh*t.

Tracklist:
01. intro (4:51)
02. berlin (5:42)
03. noon (5:55)
04. uoon (10:03)
05. morning + iano (9:50)
06. barco (6:24)
07. nor (4:20)
08. trioon (9:16)
09. xerox (5:38)
10. siisx + mur - encore (7:26)
11. ax. mr.l. - encore (5:05)
bonus
01. trioon - second angle (rehearsal sonar 2006, june 15th 2006)
02. morning + iano - second angle (rehearsal sonar 2006, june 15th 2006)
03. uoon - second angle
04. conversation
05. credits (backstage sonar 2006, june 15th 2006)

Format: DVD9
Video: NTSC 16:9 (720x480) VBR 29.97fps 8500Kbps
Audio: Dolby AC3, 2 ch/Dolby AC3, 6 ch 48000Hz 448Kbps