Poor Isa + Evan Parker/Ingar Zach

Acclaimed Belgian duo Poor Isa—comprising banjoists Ruben Machtelinckx and Frederik Leroux—returns with their third album, marking a significant evolution in their musical journey. Departing from their established duo format, this release introduces collaborations with two luminaries of the improvisational music scene: British saxophonist Evan Parker and Norwegian percussionist Ingar Zach.

Known for their minimalist aesthetic, characterized by prepared banjos, Poor Isa continues to explore these textures while blending traditional and experimental approaches.

Evan Parker, a pivotal figure in European free improvisation, brings his distinctive soprano and tenor saxophone sound to the collaboration. Renowned for pioneering extended techniques, Parker's dynamic and energetic improvisations introduce a compelling contrast to Poor Isa's introspective soundworld.

Ingar Zach contributes his innovative percussion work, using the Gran Cassa and vibrating speakers to create resonant textures. His approach adds depth and color, enhancing the album's exploratory nature .

Poor Isa provides a flexible framework, allowing Parker and Zach to imprint their unique voices while maintaining the duo's core identity.

Frederik Leroux: banjo, woodblocks
Ruben Machtelinckx: banjo, woodblocks
Evan Parker: soprano and tenor saxophones
Ingar Zach: percussion

Recorded by Ted Masseurs at Number Nine Studios, June 2024
Recorded by Stijn Cools at F17, February 2025
Mixed by Stijn Cools
Mastered by Gert Van Hoof at Cochlea

All compositions by Frederik Leroux and Ruben Machtelinckx except Untitled 7 by Frederik Leroux

Design by Jeroen Wille