By Glenn Astarita
Four In One
Misha Mengelberg Quartet
Songlines
Pianist Misha MengelbergÃÂs Monk influence shines forth on this relatively straight-ahead modern jazz effort, featuring trumpeter Dave Douglas, bassist Brad Jones and the pianistÃÂs longtime comrade, drummer Han Bennink. The title track, ÃÂMonkÃÂs Mood,ÃÂ and ÃÂCriss CrossÃÂ signify the Monk compositions while Mengelberg composed the remaining eight works. Otherwise, this is a solid bump and grind affair along with elements of post-Bop and swing. Few major surprises here, as the musicians execute in skillful and altogether jubilant fashion.
Odyssey
Barry Guy ÃÂ Marilyn Crispell ÃÂ Paul Lytton
Intakt
The sound and overall scope of this project might be akin to Ms. CrispellÃÂs previous trio efforts with bassist Gary Peacock and drummer Paul Motian. However, everyone shares top billing here, as the artistsÃÂ visceral exchanges surge forward with the graceful fluidity of a mountain stream. The trio delicately bobs and weaves amid an abundance of tastily rendered micro-themes. Without further ado, count this release among the crop of outstanding efforts for 2002!
Isole (Islands)
McCandless ÃÂ Ferra ÃÂ Dalla Porta - Maras
EGEA
First impressions might lead one to think that this is an Italian version of the group, Oregon. Especially since multi-woodwind ace, Paul McCandless and a mighty fine rhythm section engages in whispery melodies and slithery themes. Sure, comparisons cannot be ignored. Nevertheless, the Italian musicians composed all of these works, as the music seems to be a culmination of Mediterranean folk, and jazzy soloing. In addition, each composition makes an indelibly affecting impression! This is a beautifully recorded affair, awash with McCandless and guitarist Bebbo FerraÃÂs fervent soloing and tranquil dreamscapes.
The Blair Recordings
Steve Cohn
Leo Records
Steve Cohn utilizes keyboards, percussion, and indigenous instruments throughout this strangely appealing set. Blair Hardman provides some EFX while also credited with the engineering and mastering duties. The highlight for this writer is the thirteen-minute opus titled, ÃÂMiller TimeÃÂ ÃÂ where Cohn narrates atop a sequence of anecdotal motifs and concisely arranged synths. Basically, the artist comes across as a beatnik for the new age via hip, Jack Kerouac type verse. If you strive for something a bit left-of-center, then try this one out for size!
A Symphony Of Cities
Famoudou Don Moye ÃÂ Tatsu Aoki
Chicago Sound
Drummer Famoudou Don Moye (Art Ensemble of Chicago) and bassist Tatsu Aoki dig in for a series of duets that convey a sense of intimacy and composure. The music breathes, in concert with expansive choruses and a surprising amount of depth. Saxophonist Francis Wong and flutist Joel Brandon join forces with the rhythm section on two pieces for a set consisting of astute improvisations. Hence, A Symphony Of Cities translates into a celebration of life. A wonderful outing it is!
156 Strings
Nineteen Totally Original Acoustic Guitarists
Cuneiform
Avant guitar hero, Henry Kaiser produced this CD featuring a wide array of famous and lesser-known acoustic guitarists, although folks such as Jean-Paul Bourelly, Mike Keneally and Raoul Bjorkenheim are generally recognized for their searing electric guitar escapades. Essentially, this compilation presents the listener with a divergent viewpoint. The aforementioned players turn in deeply moving performances while we also get to hear Kaiser, the legendary Peter Lang, Richard Thompson, and many others. And while the organic vibe goes straight to the heart, in some instances the musiciansÃÂ acoustic work can be comparatively electrifying. **Essential**
