Pixie People is the debut album of German, Berlin-based up-and-coming musicians – guitarist Werner Neumann and drummer Laurids Richter augmented by violinist Fabiana Striffler. The album was recorded at Soundfabrik Berlin in April 2023 and offers ten concise, playful, and rhythmic conversations that vary in intensity, mood, composition, and direction that defy genres and traditions.
The album relies on the non-conforming, unorthodox, and energetic free improvised interplay of Shrunk – Neumann and Richter, both sounding like a much bigger outfit than just effects-laden electric guitar and drums. They aren’t just thinking outside the box; they’re getting rid of the box entirely. Stiffler’s contributions inject a melodic dimension to Shrunk’s spontaneous dynamics, and steer the experimental edge towards simpler, playful textures.
Stiffler says that during the improvisations, this trio referred to myths and legends they grew up with. Some of these stories were disturbing, but also touching about the mountains and valleys of their childhood. These mountains and valleys may be populated by the legendary pixie people, but these people must be friendly, whimsical, and adventurous just like this trio is.
Eyal Hareuveni
Fabiana Striffler (violin), Werner Neumann (guitar), Laurids Richter (drums)
