Trevor Watts (alto and soprano saxophone) & Veryan Weston (digital key station) + Chris Cundy (bass clarinet)
(Review by Steve H/Photos courtesy of Ken Drew).
After a couple of fairly straight-ahead gigs this last week I was ready for something a little more challenging and Sunday night at The Bridge did not disappoint. Watts and Weston are pioneers of Britain’s free jazz scene and have played together many times. Fortunately, in the case of this dynamic duo, familiarity breeds creativity. Watts on both alto and soprano sax blew all the cobwebs away with the power and intrigue of an old master. Meanwhile, Weston, on a digital key station, was simply a revelation I have never seen an electronic keyboard played with such gusto and passion. The sum of the parts produced a memorable set of uplifting free jazz. In fact, when they had completed their performance I couldn’t believe that 45 minutes had passed so quickly.
Earlier in the evening saw a virtuoso performance from Chris Cundy on bass clarinet. The instrument has a great range of tones but Cundy managed to produce an unprecedented array of effects with his phenomenal technique incorporating multiphonics and circular breathing. The original pieces related to folk dances, trees, wood and swamps. The final piece was somewhat ominously named Burial but it was far from a melancholy affair. An extraordinary performance thoroughly appreciated by all presentThe evening concluded with all 3 musicians coming together to perform a couple of marvellous improvised pieces. Not everyone’s cup of tea I’m sure, but for those who like something a little less sweet with their beverage a quite delicious offering.
Steve H.
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