The First Smile

RELEASE DATE: December 18

The First Smile gamelan set of traditional Indonesian instruments was entrusted to the late ethnomusicologist Allan Thomas in the mid-70s while studying in Cirebon near the coastal northeast of West Java. The set, thought to be at least 300 years old, is frequently played by the ensemble featured on this recording.

Beautifully performed, recorded and presented, this album testifies to the vision and legacy of Allan Thomas and the commitment of The First Smile ensemble in keeping the flame alive.

Along with two traditional compositions (Sinjang Kirut , or 'crumpled sarong', and Kasturun, traditionally used as accompaniment to female court dancers), this album features works by Anton Killin, Lou Harrison, David Farquhar, Chris Francis, Alison Isadora, and Gerard Crewdson.

This project was made possible with generous support from the Lilburn Trust, without whom the recording would not have been possible. Our grateful thanks and appreciation.

Recorded and mixed by Warwick Donald
Mastered by Thomas Arbor
Design by UnkleFranc
Printed by Studio Q

Founding director: Dr Allan Thomas
Patron: Dr Joko Susilo
Players: Gerard Crewdson, Chris Francis, Rosalind Jiko, Helen Lowe, Hui Luo, Barbara Lyon, Keith McEwing, Jennifer Shennan

The First Smile respectfully acknowledges Allan Thomas, Jack Body, Paramita Abdurachman, Yusuf Dendabrata, Richard North, Jonathan Engel at SOUNZ, Jo Hilder (gamelan.org.nz), Daniel Beban, John Casey for supplying many of the wonderful photos used in this booklet, UnkleFranc Design, and Steve Garden at Rattle Records