Playing with the hypothesis of nu-music and giving a voice to large-scale orchestral works is Melbourne-based contemporary instrumental collective, Arcko Symphonic Ensemble. The Arcko (masterminded by conductor, percussionist and Australian music advocate, Timothy Phillips) has extended its live performance repertoire to their first album release, X-ray Baby, containing the recording works of Australian composers Caerwen Martin, Kate Neal, Annie Hsieh and Felipe Pinto d’Aguiar. Like much of the ensemble’s previous repertoire, their debut release innovates the orchestral form; X-ray Baby dissecting themes which relate to the cultivation of life and matter, such as the neonatal, particle physics, and the inherited consequences of macro-climate impact.

Drawing from over six years’ experience performing original Australian works as a New Music Orchestra, Timothy Phillips (Artistic Director), says that the debut release is proof of the ensembles cohesion as a live performance collective – something which is often lacking with new orchestral works.

“X-ray Baby showcases the attention to detail of the players; there is a genuine sense of ensemble which is often lacking in the performance of new orchestral music,” suggested Phillips.

Inspired by experiences gathered whilst living and working in Europe with leading contemporary ensembles and musicians, Phillips wanted to create an ensemble which dedicated itself to larger scale repertoire, particularly one which gave a voice to new Australian works and composers.

“Listeners will get a sense of the real passion for the music of our time, whether it is an intricately notated piece or a semi-improvised score. The musical commitment is palpable, and the quality is world class,” said Phillips. “We are at the forefront of new artist support and contemporary music-making in orchestral settings.”

X-ray Baby is an extended four track album which is driven by the narratives of lead composers Martin, Neal, Hsieh and Pinto d’Aguiar. Icy Disintegration, the album’s first piece written by Annie Hsieh, has been described as a “sparklingly crisp example of skillful orchestration” (Sydney Morning Herald), as she creates an electrifying scenario of an iceberg collapse based on the disintegration of B-15A in the Ross Sea.

Arcko have been performing regularly around Melbourne for years, however, their debut album release (Crackbell Records) will solidify their growing penchant for creating high quality work and opportunities for new Australian artists to showcase their compositions to local and international audiences.

STREAM X-RAY BABY | ARCKO SYMPHONIC ENSEMBLE

“Arcko is contemporary music-making without compromises or dumbing-down.”
(Sydney Morning Herald)

“In an arena where contemporary voices are heard only occasionally, Arcko's presence is to be relished.”
(The Age)

“Timothy Phillips conducts a band of the best musicians in town, which means world class performances.”
(Weering Review)

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