Partner (Chicago) began in 2013 as a celebration between musicians. The project developed into an exploration of rhythm, textures and genres. The songs are built upon Libby Ramer’s compositions using keyboards, vocals and effects, and feature the mercurial and multifaceted drumming of Ben Billington, noir bass from Alex Nova and free form saxophone from Christmas Woods. Experiments with phrasing and form were arranged to best express the emotions of each song, and recording engineer Cooper Crain [Cave, Bitchin’ Bajas] greatly assisted in bringing these tones to canvas. Whitney Johnson [Matchess] appears on Drang and Six A.
Recorded over 2014-15, Partner's Green to Gold was set aside for years following production. In 2020, Partner band members reconnected virtually to collaborate on the album details, welcoming a new team member in designer Drew Ryan [E.T. Habit, Courtesy]. The end result is truly a labor of love. The album feels immediate and immersive.
Ramer and Billington [Quicksails, ADT, Tiger Hatchery] previously collaborated in moody avant-prog trio Moonrises, while Nova [The Frog Rider, Order of Night] and Woods [Mickey] emerged from progressive punk outfit E.T. Habit. Later incarnations...  more