Multi-talented artist James Krivchenia has carved a niche in the music world, collaborating with renowned names such as Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran while also producing for Big Thief. Now, Krivchenia ventures into uncharted territory with his latest release, "Performing Belief." This abstract solo project blends electronic beats, atmospheric field recordings, and raw percussion to create an eight-track journey that transcends traditional genres. Released on May 2, this LP reflects Krivchenia’s innovative approach to rhythm and sound design. The album features collaborations with genre-defying musicians Sam Wilkes and Joshua Abrams, further enriching its eclectic soundscape.
Krivchenia's musical odyssey began with drums, an instrument he embraced at the tender age of nine or ten. Guided by a high school mentor who introduced him to diverse influences like Primus and Rage Against the Machine, his passion for percussion grew alongside explorations into jazz during his teenage years. His education at Berklee College of Music expanded his horizons, exposing him to various musical styles and fostering friendships with fellow prodigious musicians. These experiences shaped his unique style, which incorporates both digital and organic elements.
In crafting "Performing Belief," Krivchenia delved deep into field recordings, capturing natural sounds from creeks and rocks. He integrated these elements into his compositions using computer software, creating intricate textures that define the album's distinctive character. Collaborations with Wilkes and Abrams added depth, particularly through their contributions to the low-end frequencies that previously eluded him. This synergy resulted in tracks like the effervescent "Undesigned" and the minimalist "Filling In The Swamp," showcasing Krivchenia’s ability to weave complexity into seemingly simple structures.
Beyond the technical aspects, "Performing Belief" serves as a spiritual exploration, inviting listeners to partake in personal rituals through its rhythmic patterns. Krivchenia describes the process as akin to performing belief itself—a nod to the performative nature of artistic expression. Sequencing the album proved challenging yet rewarding, ultimately yielding a cohesive listening experience underpinned by feedback from Planet Mu, the label responsible for its release. Known for championing rhythm-centric projects across multiple genres, Planet Mu provided the ideal platform for Krivchenia's vision.
As Krivchenia prepares for his inaugural solo live performances, anticipation builds around translating the intricacies of "Performing Belief" onto stage. Balancing organic instrumentation with electronic components presents challenges, but also opportunities for improvisation. With support from collaborators including Wilkes, Michael Patrick Avery, and Caleb Michael, the live shows promise dynamic interpretations of the recorded material. Despite nerves inherent to any debut performance, Krivchenia remains optimistic about sharing this new chapter with audiences worldwide.
The culmination of years spent refining his craft, "Performing Belief" marks a significant milestone in James Krivchenia's career. By merging disparate influences and embracing technological advancements, he has created an immersive auditory experience that resonates on multiple levels. As listeners engage with the album, they may discover parallels between its themes and their own quests for meaning within creative pursuits. Ultimately, Krivchenia hopes his work will inspire others to explore their inner worlds and embrace the transformative power of music.