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Hasidic New Wave: Jews & the Abstract Truth
The disc opens with the driving "Satmer Hakafos #6," which veers between Ornette-ish abstraction and wedding dance music abandon. Co-leader Greg Wall burns on tenor sax and David Fiuczynski turns in some slippery guitar licks. "Sim Shalom" cooks over a funky groove and features amazing solos from Wall, Fiuczynski and co-leader Frank London on trumpet. "Tzur Mishelo" is a somber ballad full of emotion and poignant beauty. Percussionist Aaron Alexander and bassist Kenny Davis contribute solid, imaginative support throughout.
Other highlights include a gorgeous tenor saxophone feature on "Last Temptation of Lady L" and "Eliyahu Hanovi," the exhilarating wedding dance music of "V'smatcha," a freeform horn dialogue on "Welcome to the McDonald's in Dachau," with Ben Goldberg of the New Klezmer Trio sitting in on bass clarinet, and the funkified freak out of "Finale:'Juba.'"
The deep traditions of both Jewish music and jazz are honored in this outstanding release. Highly recommended.
Track Listing
Satmer Hakafos #6, Sim Shalom; Tzur Mishelo; Last Temptation of Lady L.; Eliyahu Hanovi; V
Personnel
Greg Wall, tenor sax; Frank London, trumpet; David Fiuczynski, guitar; Kenny Davis, bass; Aaron Alexander, drums.
Album information
Title: Jews & the Abstract Truth | Year Released: 1997 | Record Label: Knitting Factory
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Hasidic New Wave
CD/LP/Track Review
Rick Bruner
Knitting Factory
United States
Jews & the Abstract Truth