THE haunting surroundings of Kilmun Mausoleum will provide the backdrop for an unusual musical experience later this month, when two veteran musicians bring an evening of experimental electronic music to the historic venue.
Dunoon musician Kenneth Clark and Falkirk-based George Falconer will join forces on Sunday, November 29, at 5.30pm for a performance of ambient electronic improvisations inspired by the pioneering sounds of the 1970s.
The pair have spent decades performing in bands across Scotland, covering everything from rock, pop and blues to jazz, reggae and progressive rock.
But their latest musical venture takes them in a very different direction.
Their paths first crossed through work colleagues in Glasgow, when they helped form a charity band that went on to perform at some of Scotland’s best-known venues, including King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, The Arches, The Fruitmarket and the Renfrew Ferry.
The group raised funds for cancer support charities, but it was during rehearsal breaks that Kenneth and George discovered a shared fascination with early electronic and ambient music.
Both had been inspired by experimental artists including Tangerine Dream, Kraftwerk, Klaus Schulze and Brian Eno, alongside Japanese electronic pioneers such as Isao Tomita and Yellow Magic Orchestra.
Despite their extensive musical backgrounds, it was one genre neither had explored in live performance.
In the 1970s, the high cost of synthesiser equipment, the unpredictable nature of electronic improvisation and the difficulty of finding suitable venues had made such a project impractical.
Decades later, the pair have finally decided to give it a go.
Their collaboration has developed through recording sessions, further academic study in electronic music and discussions at a major electronic music symposium in Berlin.
Now, with a gap in their respective progressive rock and blues band commitments, the musicians are preparing to bring their experimental sounds to Kilmun.
The mausoleum’s distinctive atmosphere promises to add another dimension to the performance, which will explore the possibilities of synthesiser-based music and improvisation.
Organisers are encouraging audiences to come with an open mind — and plenty of warm clothing.
A complimentary glass of wine will also be offered to those attending.
