Nanocluster (Immersion | SUSS)

Nanocluster : some words about itTheme: collaboration.Or how to remain creative in the modern world.The latest instalment of Nanocluster is an intriguing collaboration between Immersion : Colin Newman (from ac-claimed UK post-punk band Wire) and his partner in life and sound Malka Spigel (Minimal Compact) with NewYork ambient country band SUSS.Nanoclusteris the extension of Colin and Malka’s relationship, friendships and commitment to art and ideas. Theyinitially met when Colin produced Malka’s band in 1985.The collaboration started there.They then became a couple and created their own projects, like the instrumental electronic duoImmersion, in1994.Growing out of Immersion, Nanocluster was birthed as a series of one-off gigs at the Rosehill in their new home-town of Brighton from 2017 with an added cast of influential and cutting edge musicians. Each gig featuring per-formances from Immersion & guests as well as the collaboration.These were not ad hoc jams.The songs had been written and rehearsed prior to each performance. This adventure led to a debut album,Nanocluster Vol 1, released in 2021 with Stereolab singer/guitaristLaetitia Sadier, German post-rock duoTar-water, electronic musicianUlrich Schnaussand experimental artistRobin Rimbaud(Scanner).Nanocluster Vol 2further developed this idea with a stark beauty that sounds like a future pop with sleek lines andunexpected great melodies. Built aroundThor Harris, the charismatic percussion player from Swans and manyother projects, andCubzoa(Jack Wolter from the band Penelope Isles).Key to the process is Colin and Malka’s radio show for Slack City radio,Swimming In Soundwith its entertaininglydiverse playlist that has widened their horizons. It’s also helped build relationships not only with these collaboratorsbut also musicians like the ambient country mastersSUSS, with whom they have producedNanocluster Vol.3which will be released in mid February 2025 followed by extended Nanocluster tour in the USA.MalkaNanocluster is collaboration but in a very specific form. We don't have rules. It’s a series of creative snap-shots.ColinIt’s chemistry & music. Malka & I operate as a team and now we’ve taken it to another level.Nanocluster is a 21st century collusion of shared ideas, creating a momentary extended musical family.It’s about musical and personal relationships and the meeting place in the middle.A temporary band of house guests.SUSS just moved, in ideas merged and new soundscapes were forged.This is the place where Immersion happens.John Robb