Melbourne-based guitarist and composer Cameron Pikó, known by his artist name, Montresor, has made a significant return to the music scene with his new album, Autopoiesis, released on May 24, 2024. This album marks Montresor’s first release in nine years and showcases an intricate fusion of technical instrumental progressive rock and classical instrumentation.
Autopoiesis, a term that signifies a system’s capability to self-replicate, is a fitting title for Montresor’s latest project. This album represents the culmination of years of effort, with several compositions originating from the February Album Writing Month challenge in 2018. It is a testament to Pikó’s unwavering dedication to his craft and his ambition to explore new musical frontiers. The album serves as a tribute to the brief yet impactful Rock in Opposition (RIO) movement of the late 1970s, taking cues from bands like Henry Cow and Univers Zero. These influences shine through in the album’s diverse array of instruments, including marimba, bassoon, piano, harpsichord, clarinet, and bass clarinet, all woven seamlessly with the traditional rock ensemble of drums, guitars, and bass.
The album features an impressive lineup of musicians who bring Pikó’s compositions to life. Cameron Pikó handles the guitars, while Chris Martin on bassoon, Stuart Byrne on bass clarinet, Charlie Cawood on bass guitar, and Vilan Mai on clarinet contribute to the unique sound. Drummers Morgan Ågren and Gerry Pantazis, pianist Phil Turcio, and additional keyboardists Richard Allison and Gabriel Riccio also add their talents, creating a richly textured and dynamically varied album.
Autopoiesis features eight tracks (~45 minutes long), each offering a unique auditory experience. From the opening notes of “Vanishing Fog” to the closing title track, the album takes listeners on a journey through complex time signatures, polymeters, and bitonality. The title track, “Autopoiesis,” stands out for its nostalgic and daydreaming nature, reminiscent of classic video game scores like those from SimCity, evoking a sense of thoughtfulness.
While Autopoiesis marks a significant stylistic shift from Montresor’s previous work, it maintains the core elements that define Pikó’s music. His 2015 debut album, Entelechy, was characterized by powerful rock influences, virtuosic guitar work, and complex compositions. In contrast, Autopoiesis leans more towards a blend of progressive rock and classical music, showcasing Pikó’s versatility and growth as a composer. Despite this evolution, the album retains the experimental spirit and joy in complex time signatures that have always been central to Pikó’s work. Tracks like “Bildungsroman” and “Homunculus” highlight this continuity, combining the sophisticated compositional techniques of his earlier work with new instrumental textures.
Montresor’s return with Autopoiesis is a testament to Cameron Pikó’s enduring passion for progressive and experimental music. The album not only pays tribute to the RIO movement but also paves the way for future explorations in the fusion of rock and classical music—and we’re here for it.
For more information, you can visit Montresor’s official website, follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Autopoiesis is available for streaming on Spotify and for purchase on Bandcamp.
