Halal Kebab Hut

About this user

Halal Kebab Hut -- algorithmic junkestra is a band of seven improviseurs de junk. The group is the gastrosonic brainchild of, East London-based composer/improviser/anarchist/teacher/cyclist, Simon Katan, who creates all the algorithmic fodder for the band. This takes the form of game pieces - rigorous, non-linear, rule-based structures that provide differing systems of organisation without prescribing content - that bind the performer's actions together into complex networks of interrelations. The presence of a pseudo-random computerised conductor, controlling time steps, and the iterative nature of the structures ensures that performers may only partially manipulate events.

In case it isn't already clear enough, all this is played out on junk - objects, deemed unworthy of serious musical activities, which are capable of producing interesting sounds - tin cans, water balloons, electric toothbrush, bubble wrap, whoopee cushion, food mixer, vacuum cleaner, hack saw, kazoos, swanee whistle, bird calls, electronic children's toys, Casio MT-41, computer speakers in feedback loops ... you get the idea.

The group has been together since October 2004 and has recorded one album 'High Brow Low Art Music' which has recently been released under, independent net label, Earth Monkey Productions, with plans to release a second album soon.