Karpov Not Kasparov

Karpov Not Kasparov

Karpov Not Kasparov is a group from București, formed in 2009 as an experimental project built around an exchange between a drum machine and vintage synthesiser. The act develops through several names over time, including Karpov vs Kasparov, Karpov & Kasparov, KarpovKasparov and Trio Karpov Kasparov.

Formation and performance style

The project begins as a musical game of action and reaction between electronic elements. It later expands beyond the original duo to include an analogue visual artist and two contemporary-art performers. This combination results in a live show that brings together theatrical performance and real-time soundtrack work.

Many of the performances take place in unusual locations, including a barber shop, a public library, a restaurant kitchen and a shoe store. In 2012, the project returns to local stages with a run of live shows, with live drums added on stage.

Recordings and reception

In autumn 2011, LocalRecords releases the electronic EP Soundtrack for a Game of Chess under the name Karpov not Kasparov. The EP is later selected by Radio Romania Cultural and Radio Europa Libera among the year’s best musical works, and Vice Magazine names it album of the month.