Based in Huddersfield, UK, Stems formed in 2011 with the idea of seeking a new relationship between experimental guitar and classical instruments, to create music with the energy of rock music but with elongated and intense structures of Western and Indian classical music. The name Stems is derived from the idea of roots diverging to produce unique strands, all of which are bound to a central body.
The sound of the album is that of contradictions; Calm and delicate yet intense and darkly uplifting. Dreamlike beautiful music that builds from simple rhythms/ melodies/ drones, reaching elegant hypnotic climaxes and intense crescendos that have now been interwoven with a string and wind ensemble.
Experimental guitar blends with classical strings while eastern influences on technique and composition are mixed with minimalism and classical theory such as counterpoint and organum.
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