Ned Rothenberg, Elliott Sharp, Samm Bennett's lyrics & chords

Semantics was a short-lived and occasionally thrilling trio who patrolled downtown New York City in the mid-'80s. They were composed of three of the shining lights of that community and combined a free jazz explorative intensity with a punk rock rigor and directness. The potential of the group is wonderfully captured on the opener, "Terra Firma": a complex and funky rhythmic pattern is laid down by Ned Rothenberg and Samm Bennett, one that's luscious enough to go on forever. Just as the listener is settling back to wallow for the duration, Elli...read more