Pianist JB Dunckel Unveils Debut Solo Album: 'Paranormal Musicality'—Available Now
- by Adam Bailey
- in Latest
JB Dunckel, a significant figure in electronic music through his solo career and as part of the French duo AIR, has unveiled his latest project titled "Paranormal Musicality," marking his debut recording as a pianist and composer. Listen below.
For Dunckel, who inked a recording deal with the major classical music label Warner Classics last year, this album represents a crucial moment of personal reinvention.
"Paranormal Musicality" embraces the realms of free, delicate, and ambitious piano improvisation. Between 2019 and 2022, JB Dunckel strategically positioned a set of microphones around his piano studio, capturing hundreds of spontaneous free performances. The 18 instrumental pieces on the album are crafted from nearly 250 melodies recorded in these sessions, with each piece captured in a single, unedited take.
Immersed in imagery of a world where nature pulsates and breathes, these works encapsulate everything the musician has ever written and cherished. Primarily, the project pays homage to the piano as an instrument that has been a constant companion to Dunckel since his childhood. His close connection with his piano teacher from music school, who continued to mentor him throughout his electronic career until her passing in 2003, is a significant influence reflected in the album. The title, "Paranormal Musicality," serves as a tribute to her spirit and enduring impact on his music.
AIR, the French musical duo formed by Dunckel and Nicolas Godin, achieved global success with over 4 million albums sold worldwide. Their critically acclaimed debut album, "Moon Safari" (1998), and the score for Sofia Coppola’s cult classic, "The Virgin Suicides" (2000), garnered widespread acclaim and have accumulated hundreds of millions of streams. "Moon Safari" is certified Double Platinum in the UK, and the track “Playground Love” has garnered over 70 million streams on Spotify alone.
In 2024, Dunckel and Godin embark on an anniversary tour celebrating 25 years since the release of "Moon Safari," including a performance at London’s Coliseum on March 24.
"Paranormal Musicality" is available now via Warner Classics on CD, LP, and streaming platforms.
