The Binary System is pianist Roger C. Miller and drummer Larry Dersch. Their CD
From the Epicenter demonstrates a surprising approach of the piano/drums duet. Three of the 12 tracks are improvised, but the main interest of the album resides in the written material. Miller borrows compositional elements from classical, jazz, and rock. The resulting form resembles progressive rock, although less pompous, thanks to the stripped-down lineup. Fans of
Emerson, Lake & Palmer will definitely feel at home through the first three tracks, "Core Sample," "The Epicenter," and "1-Shift," all virtuosic numbers with complex structures, numerous changes in time signature, and an overall strong progressive feel. The situation changes afterwards as Miller puts objects on the piano strings. The prepared piano pieces take a more avant-garde approach and, although the straight piano comes back for the last third of the album, the music remains a little more daring and exciting (both musicians go totally crazy on "Warp Drive"). ~ François Couture