Charles Hayward is a maverick figure in the British avant-garde music scene, renowned for his eclectic and experimental approach to percussion and composition. Born on October 14, 1947, in Hampstead, London, Hayward's musical journey began in the late '60s with the band Slapp Happy, where he collaborated with his then-partner Anne-Marie Roobet. The duo's innovative use of found sounds and unconventional instrumentation laid the groundwork for what would become Hayward's signature style—a blend of free improvisation, rock, folk, and avant-garde music. After Slapp Happy, Hayward continued to push musical boundaries with his subsequent bands, This Heat and Camber, influencing a generation of musicians with their complex rhythms, textural layers, and conceptual approach to songcraft. His solo work further expanded his sonic palette, incorporating field recordings and electronics, showcasing his ability to create intricate and evocative soundscapes. Rie Nakajima is a Japanese sound artist whose practice merges traditional hand-made instruments from her native country with contemporary experimental music techniques. Born in Japan in 1976, Nakajima's journey into the world of sound art was influenced by her study of butoh dance and her fascination with the movement's emphasis on subtlety and stillness. Her performances are often characterized by a mesmerizing minimalism, as she manipulates objects such as paper, bamboo, or natural materials to draw out their inherent sounds. Collaborating with Hayward since 2009, Nakajima has become an integral part of his live setups and recordings, bringing a unique sensibility that marries the raw energy of improvisation with the delicate artistry of her instrument creations. Together, Hayward and Nakajima have redefined the possibilities of acoustic and electronic music, creating a dialogue between traditional craftsmanship and avant-garde experimentation that resonates with audiences worldwide. Their collaborative efforts have been lauded for their ability to transcend cultural and musical barriers, offering listeners an immersive experience that is as visceral as it is intellectually stimulating.