Uri Caine Ensemble: The Goldberg Variations

A 2-CD set that expands the original 30 variations into 70 pieces, we must also be cognizant of the fact that Caine’s arrangements and compositions are primarily adaptations. Along with such notables as trumpeter Ralph Alessi, clarinetist Don Byron, bassist James Genus, vocalist David Moss, the “Koln String Quartet” and many others, Caine’s musical visions draw upon a vast array of styles that includes, spoken word, DJ Logic’s turntables, jazz, baroque, gospel and more. Disk 1, features pieces such as “The Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde Variation”, where the listener is treated to David Moss’ farcical vocals atop classical overtones whereas, clarinetist Greg Osby and Caine engage in a bit of free-jazz type dialogue on “Variation For Saxophone & Piano”. Yet the various ensembles also meld straight-ahead jazz with variations that feature Afro-Cuban rhythms and soulful blues.

Disk 2 commences with “Variation 16 Overture” which boasts a lovely theme thanks to Cordula Breuer’s luscious notes and sweet-tempered musings performed on alto recorder; however, David Moss’ playfully stout and largely indecipherable vocals might be characteristic of a grumpy old codger. Here, Moss could be poking a bit of fun at Bach or possibly your stereotypical frustrated-German classical composer. All in good fun I may add.

With disk 2, you will also hear bassoon and trumpet duets, swing vamps, the great Ernst Reijseger performing a cello solo and just about anything else imaginable. Basically, one of the great attributes of this ambitious project is based upon Caine’s ability to inject humor and disparate elements into his writings and arrangements; although, there’s much more than meets the eye here as ideas abound with ceaseless invention and soulful articulation despite the semi austere implications. Perhaps the bottom line or desired effect of this project is contingent upon the relationships established between varying art forms and how all music is rooted and intertwined. Either way you view it, Caine’s The Goldberg Variations is a magnificent event for the aural senses! Highly recommended.

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The “Allegro Corporation” handles distribution in North America.

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