Primitive Art Group - Live Cuts 1981-1983 (2025) [Hi-Res]

Following the recent archival release of Primitive Art Group’s studio albums “1981-1986”, we are pleased to announce the release of this 65-minute album of live PAG performances recorded between 1981 and 1983. These recordings document the beginnings of the PAG in all its raw beauty and chronicle its development into a unique improvising unit. Made from original cassettes tapes, this fills a missing part in the story of free music and in the story of underground music from New Zealand.

“Live Cuts 1981-1983” contains three tracks featuring early member Pam Grey on cello and vocals, a snapshot of a remarkable and largely unrecorded musician. Wellington legend Gerard Crewdson joins for one improvisation on wordless vocals. The band work out on covers of Albert Ayler’s “Ghosts” and “Bells,” a few group improvisations, some originals and a homage reworking of Cecil Taylor’s “Unit Structures”.

“Live Cuts 1981-1983” presents the band live and spontaneous, anticipating their later recorded output. Another crucial piece of the Primitive Art Group and New Zealand free music story.