Matt Holman (tpt); Jeremy Udden (alt); Jarrett Chernier (pno); Martin Nevin (bs); Ziv Ravitz (dms).
(Review by Lance).
Sketches is a Brooklyn-based collective built around a unique and profoundly simple idea: truly collaborative composition. Before rehearsal each member shares a sketch from his notebook (e.g. any musical fragment, a collection of fragments, an incomplete tune) and another member uses that as the basis for a new composition. The band then rehearse and develop the piece further, making each musical choice together in a completely democratic way. Inherent in each piece is the challenge of blending two distinct musical personalities, yet with an ensemble of strong composers and sensitive performers, the results are as engaging as they are unpredictable - so says the album note.
Unpredictable maybe but this is no hodge-podge patchwork quilt but a blended whisky transformed into a single malt. Although the soloists are given free rein there aren't any pet shop arsonists at work. Udden has a delicate Kontiz/Desmond approach captivating in its fragility. Holman displays similar qualities searching, probing and always finding the right phrase. Chernier, dexterous, inventive in solo, solid and supportive in ensemble with Nevin the linchpin and Ravitz the stoker keeping the boiler simmering.
A rare meeting of musical equals combining their compositional skills into a canvas of sound with no visible joins.
Sketches Volume One is released on November 5 on Baldhill Records 091012.
Further details.
Further details.
Lance.
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