Livewire: Microkingdom - Definitive Infinite Divinity

In its sixth season, this year’s Livewire contemporary music festival at UMBC explores the connection between words and music. How have poetry and literature influenced the development and trajectory of contemporary music movement? What are some writings that have inspired individual composers? How does poetry exist in music that doesn’t have words?

The Baltimore-based ensemble Microkingdom comprises John Dierker, reeds; Marc Miller, guitar; Will Redman, percussion, and will feature special guest Zach Poff, on computer and electronics. Microkingdom is a psychosonic curatorial adventure existing in both the acoustic and electro-acoustic realms, and specializing in zone variance of extra-cognitive spiritual magnetism. The ensemble is somehow an oddity in Baltimore’s expansive and already odd music scene. Separately, Miller, Redman, and Dierker have each been vital proponents of underground rock, free improv, jazz, and avant garde composition in America’s Comeback City for years. In 2006, they started rehearsing together in a disused room of an auto body shop and playing raucous live shows to an eclectic and enthusiastic audience (Whartscape, Mobtown Modern, the Red Room). Described by City Paper as an “out-there band, but Baltimore canon,” the group’s performance will feature:

• Part I: Definitive Infinite Divinity by Will Redman (world premiere)

• Part II: Smooth Compositions of No Tendencies (Dierker, Miller, Poff, Redman (2009-2014)

Admission: $15 general, $10 seniors, $5 students, available through MissionTix. Tickets will also be available at the door, cash only.

Click here for the complete Livewire festival schedule.