Ben Kaya is an american, brussels based composer, producer and performer. His work primarily is concerned with simplicity, limitation and repetition, using long durations, repetitive motifs and a focus on texture in sound and visuals to bring a natural life to his vision.
His compositions often include the use of alternative tuning systems, electronics in combination with acoustic instrumentation, programming and acoustic phenomenon.
Ben shares some of his favorite songs in this weeks edition of “Five For Friday” but first listen to his track “mvt. 2”
The Well Tuned Piano by La Monte Young
This is one of my favorite pieces ever, the concept of infinite duration, the just intonation tuning and the mite it takes to perform at such lengths. Also the impressive feat of justly tuning a piano so precisely. I have listened to the 7 hour version of the piece in its entirety multiple times.
Watching From a Distance by Warning
Such an amazing EP and title track. I have never been a huge doom metal fan but this one track has stuck with me through time. It’s wrenching and intense and reminds me of a manic feeling when you’re alone late at night. Perfect song for many occasions.
Eldest Sister by Evanora Unlimited
This is another of my favorites ever. He’s a really incredible artist with crazy variety and I’ve been listening for many years, it’s nice to see him grow and develop. True masterful lyricism and such simple production that feels so primal.
Harmonium 1 by James Tenney
Another of my favorite contemporary pieces. Just like La Monte Young I have an infinite respect for the furthering of acoustic research and creating form from clouds.
Teardrop by Massive Attack
This is such a wonderful tale, it reminds me a lot of being young and driving with my mother through Seattle and Detroit. Now I can enjoy it as nostalgia and a driving passion.
