Dave Holland Quintet at the Outremont Theatre

John Kelman

Senior Editor since 2004

With the realization that there will always be more music coming at him than he can keep up with, John wonders why anyone would think that jazz is dead or dying.

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Published: October 7, 2004

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Nelson's "Amateur Sovereignty" signalled something of a change for the band. The most structured piece of the set, with shifts in mood and dynamics, it also contained some of the freest playing the band has ever done. A tight composition with many twists and turns, and one of the most complex pieces the band has ever attempted, this represents a significant shift from the more overtly groove-centric work that has always characterized the band, also proving that Nelson's strength as a contemporary composer is only beginning to be heard.

The set closed with the aforementioned "Prime Directive." Fine solos from everyone aside, it was Smith who demanded the most attention, as he played with the odd-meter, bringing a playful sense of unpredictability.

One standing ovation and a brief encore later, and the night was over, proving yet again that the Dave Holland Quintet is one of the most exciting ensembles in jazz today. With a combination of invention and accessibility, they show that jazz doesn't have to be an elitist affair; instead, it can be gripping and evocative while maintaining a broad appeal. While the next album Holland will be releasing is to be a big band record to follow-up '02's What Goes Around , based on the strength of the new material and the continuing impressive and evolving dynamic of the quintet one can only hope that it won't be too long before their new record is also released.

Visit Dave Holland on the web at www.daveholland.com .

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