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Variable Density Sound Orchestra: Evolving Strategies
ByTwo takes of Swell's Mystical Realities bookend the proceedings. In the liners, Fewell explains that the quality of the solos demanded that both cuts be included, and it's easy to hear the truth in that statement, notably in the longer second version where both the author and Tchicai sound particularly inspired and expressive. Between times, a variety of compositional gambits generate consistently worthwhile results. Both Fewell's title cut and its near relative "Revolving Strategies" were created by giving each player a set of themes, from which they could select five. It was up to each player whether to repeat and how to transition between themes. Avoiding any hint of artifice, both versions revel in a conversational pointillism which nonetheless produces a unified whole, lyrically calm on the former, more emphatic and chatty on the latter.
By contrast Tchicai's "Return and Breathe" features recognizable soloists, each given a different settings. It moves between sparse unhurried dialogue, an intricate hocketed march and a loping riff, over which the reedman spins insistent soulful variations. He also looms large on "Voyage from Ra," blowing an impassioned incantation against choppy backing, before switching to flute for a poised conclusion. Throughout the generous and adventurous program, the leader's cool intelligence and full jazzy tone add graceful counterpoint which not only complements whoever stands center stage but also provides the cohesion which glues everything together.
Track Listing
Mystical Realities; Evolving Strategies; Return and Breathe; Thoughts for Dixon; Voyage from Ra; Revolving Strategies; Heart is Only a Part; Mystical Realities: Aftermath.
Personnel
Variable Density Sound Orchestra
band / ensemble / orchestraGarrison Fewell: guitar, violin bow; bottleneck slide; John Tchicai: tenor saxophone, flute; Roy Campbell Jr: trumpet; pocket trumpet, flugelhorn, flute; Steve Swell: trombone; Dmitry Ishenko: bass; Reggie Nicholson: drums.
Album information
Title: Evolving Strategies | Year Released: 2015 | Record Label: NotTwo Records
Comments
About Variable Density Sound Orchestra
Instrument: Band / ensemble / orchestra
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