Martin Archer & Claire McAllister - Mast Year (2026) [Hi-Res]

Martin Archer presents an experimental song cycle created in collaboration with vocalist Claire McAllister and multi-instrumentalist Jan Todd. In this project, Archer adopts the role of a "collagist" and arranger, constructing intricate sonic landscapes from improvisations, Berlin School electronics, and choral arrangements. The album's conceptual foundation is Peter Wohlleben's book "The Hidden Life of Trees," which explores the theme of natural cycles (specifically the "Mast Year"). The work is distinguished by its ambitious structure, blending avant-garde improvisation with intense vocal performances, aiming to provide a unique listening experience that transcends conventional musical boundaries.

Martin Archer – woodwind, organ, electronics, arranger
Claire McAllister – voice, words
Jan Todd – harps, tagelharpa, cello, electronics
Yvonna Magda – violin, electronics
Laura Cole – electric piano and grand piano interior
Richard Jackson – percussion
Graham South – trumpet
Nathan Bettany – oboe
Alicia Gardener-Trejo – flutes
Duncan Goddard – keys and sequencer
Gary Houghton – electric guitar
Steve Dinsdale – keys and sequencer
Nick Robinson – acoustic and electric guitars
Chris Warburton – bass guitar

Tracklist:
1-1 Martin Archer & Claire McAllister - Underground [5:13]
1-2 Martin Archer & Claire McAllister - Still Beating [6:32]
1-3 Martin Archer & Claire McAllister - Stripped [9:10]
1-4 Martin Archer & Claire McAllister - Mast Year [10:16]
1-5 Martin Archer & Claire McAllister - Fall [15:09]
1-6 Martin Archer & Claire McAllister - Fruits In All Directions [3:09]
1-7 Martin Archer & Claire McAllister - Always Never [7:35]
1-8 Martin Archer & Claire McAllister - Wild [5:25]
1-9 Martin Archer & Claire McAllister - Let The Days Be Long [2:48]