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Henning Sieverts: Symmetry
ByThe disc enjoys sitting on the fence between progressive improvisation and modern classical sounds. The front line of trombonist Johannes Lauer and saxophonist/clarinetist Chris Speed is featured prominently throughout the disc. Sieverts devises contrapuntal tension between the two main soloists, and in spots cleverly blends in his bass with pianist Achin Kaufmann to create the illusion of a much larger orchestra. For example, the conversational spirit between bass, piano, trombone and clarinet on "Sun Is In Us," creates a heady momentum that resolves effortlessly into meaty solos by Sieverts and Speed.
Musically, the palindrome concept can be heard in the contrary motion between trombone and piano during the introduction to "Lion Oil," a pre-conceived gleeful waltz that bounces along courtesy of drummer John Hollenbeck. In stark contrast is the tumultuous "Deep Speed," a free-form leaning piece with intuitive ad-libbing from Lauer and Speed.
Stand out moments include the tranquil rhythmic sequence of "Leaves Fall Fall Leaves," the off-center swing feel of "Sum Summus Mus" and the floaty "Luz Azul," with a surprising reference to Miles Davis' "Solar."
Sieverts' writing is fresh and stylistically unique. The unpredictability heard throughout Symmetry makes for an enjoyable listen.
Track Listing
Top Spot; Sun Is In Us; Lion Oil; Deep Speed; All For One, One For All; Bird Rib; Leaves Fall Fall Leaves; Sum Summus Mus; Luz Azul; Never Odd Or Even; Evil Olive; We Few; Emit Time; Dr. Awkward.
Personnel
Henning Sieverts
bassHenning Sieverts: bass; Johannes Lauer: trombone; Chris Speed: tenor saxophone, clarinet; Achim Kaufmann: piano; John Hollenbeck: drums.
Album information
Title: Symmetry | Year Released: 2008 | Record Label: Pirouet Records