Sophisticated Free Jazz with a touch of Noise Rock are the muses affiliated to build this sound temple. International as well as inspirational, the six improvisations blend the intense playing of Norwegian guitarist Stian Larsen with equally bold output from UK-based associates alto saxophonist Colin Webster, drummer Andrew Lisle and bassist Ruth Goller, an Italian expatriate.

Beginning with high-pitched Aylerian slurs from the saxophonist, further intensified by juddering drum ruffs, and waves of electronic string pressure, the quartet members maintain this energetic tension through all six tracks. Dynamics doesn’t lead to discord however since each player has experience balancing strength with straightforwardness. Usually concentrating their exploration as interlocked pieces of a sonic jigsaw puzzle Webster’s split tones and corkscrew vibrations evolve close to drum ruffs and rattles plus elevated twangs and electrified throbs from the string players. The rugged and irregular tension is also tensible, with an atmospheric track like “Oracle Of The Dead” based around cymbal scratches, string rubs plus reed whistles and tongue stops.

This doesn’t prevent the disc’s almost 20˝ minute title track to be the focal point of the foursome’s skills. Multiphonic reed drones, irregular drum beats and metallic string strains combine to concentrate into a pressurized mass that seems to be unstoppable. But the challenge of avoiding indivisible excess is overcome as a juddering saxophone buzz and descending guitar strums ease the exposition to a connective and well-balanced conclusion.

Some ancient muses may have been fickle, but the ones summoned by this quartet help elevate a session that is as rewarding as it is raucous.