unart 4.0: 3 Suiten (2002)

Mark F. Turner

Senior Contributor since 2001

Considering himself a modern day 'Jazz Explorer' Mark continues to discover new and exciting music territories.

Recent articles (528 total)

Published: June 1, 2002

With a unique sound that focuses heavily on improvisation, European jazz group unart 4.0 flex their music muscles with power and skill on their new recording 3 Suiten. The quartet which was formed about 2 years ago has the skill and vision to create music that is exciting and challenging. The quartet’s instruments consist of trombone, saxophone, guitar, and drums. Each instrument possesses the distinct voice of each talented musician. This helps to elevate the true form of jazz improvisation. The music is based upon the themes of experimental Jazz concepts in the mode of Ornette Coleman’s notorious "Free Jazz" works.

3 Suiten consists of three aggressive musical compositions that combine various jazz archetypes. The music encompasses a blend of jazz and improvised music that range in tempo and mood, with rhythms and patterns showcasing quirky tempos and interweaving patterns. The tone and feel of each composition varies in fun ways, from the “Orleans” blues sound of “Suite 3”, to experimental jazz sounds in “Suite 2”. The selections are fun, intense, and memorable. They create a collage of soundscapes that highlight the musical strengths of each musician. An example of this can be noted in the beginning of “Suite 2”, in selection “Bollment", which starts off with a fine instrument conversation between Ulrich's exquisite drum work and Ewald Hügle's impeccable saxophone. A cacophony of sound is then reached and the melody is then introduced. It then spawns another conversation with an intermingling guitar and trombone dialog from Urs Röllin and Robert Morgenthaler. The encounter then branches off into new territories with the next selection within the Suite. The combining elements of Free Jazz, Hard Bop, Funk, and Rock elements; along with other abstract influences, work to create a most interesting work of art; or in this case “unart”.

Track Listing: 1. Fr

Personnel: Urs R

Record Label: Unit Records
Style: Modern Jazz