Windmill Saxophone Quartet ‎- I.I.T.V.

About This Footage

The Windmill Saxophone Quartet's "I.I.T.V." is a rare gem that has surfaced online, offering a glimpse into the lesser-known corners of 80s avant-garde music. This 3:49 clip, taken from their 1988 album "Very Scary" on Pathfinder Records, is a fascinating example of the experimental sounds that were emerging during this period.

The Windmill Saxophone Quartet was an ensemble that pushed the boundaries of traditional saxophone playing, incorporating unconventional techniques and electronic manipulation to create a unique sound. This clip showcases the group's ability to blend free-form improvisation with structured composition, resulting in a captivating and often unsettling listening experience.

One of the most striking aspects of this footage is its raw, unpolished quality. The video appears to be a low-fi recording, likely shot on a single camera or possibly even a VHS transfer. This rough-around-the-edges aesthetic adds to the clip's charm, giving it an air of authenticity and immediacy that is all too rare in today's over-produced music videos.

The quartet's use of electronic effects and processing techniques was well ahead of its time, anticipating the avant-garde and noise movements of the 1990s. The way they weave together disparate sounds – from eerie, wavering tones to percussive bursts of static – creates a sense of sonic tension that is both mesmerizing and unnerving.

The clip's title, "I.I.T.V.", is likely an abbreviation for "Institutes of Technology and Visual Arts", which hints at the group's interest in interdisciplinary collaboration. This emphasis on cross-pollination between art forms was characteristic of 80s avant-garde circles, where musicians, visual artists, and performance artists often intersected and influenced one another.

The Pathfinder Records label, on which "Very Scary" was released, was a small, independent imprint that played host to a diverse range of experimental acts. This clip serves as a testament to the label's commitment to pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in mainstream music at the time.

In an era dominated by glossy production values and formulaic songwriting, "I.I.T.V." is a refreshing reminder of the innovative spirit that defined 80s avant-garde music. The Windmill Saxophone Quartet's work may have been ahead of its time, but it continues to captivate listeners today with its bold experimentation and unbridled creativity.

This clip is a must-see for fans of experimental and avant-garde music, offering a unique glimpse into the lesser-known corners of 80s sound. Its raw energy, sonic experimentation, and historical significance make it an essential addition to any serious music collection or archive.

Curated from public records and music databases.