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Fabio Martini - Circadiana: Clangori

By Robert Spencer
December 1, 1998
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Fabio Martini - Circadiana's Clangori is a feast of sounds and textures, created by an ensemble of Italian improvisers who work thoroughly in the tradition of contemporary European improvisation: generally amelodic, although salted with beguiling melodic bits throughout; arhythmic, although percussionists Filippo Monico and Fabrizio Spera are experts at building supportive foundations with their entire instrumental arsenal. There is no real front line to the ensemble, although the reeds and horns by nature come to the fore.

Martini on clarinet and Giancarlo Locatelli on clarinet, alto clarinet and bass clarinet are the most riveting voices. Their work on many of the tracks, notably the multifaceted long-tone workout "Øster 28," the querulous "In-setti" and "Manhunt," and the turbulent "Di-Visioni" and "Paaahh," is intricately wrought. Massimo Falascone on alto, sopranino (impassioned and implacable on "Rouge") and baritone saxophones also deserves special mention. The rest of the ensemble is fine: Sergio Notari on English horn (only on two tracks: "Øster 28" and "Paaahh"); Marina Ciccarelli on trombone (most audibly inventive and reminiscent of early jazz on "The Nerve Section"); Luca Venitucci on accordion and "devices"; Angelo Avogadri on electric guitar (joined by Luciano Margorani on "Øster 28"); and the excellent (see "Di-visioni") Tito Mangialajo Rantzer on bass.

Clangori explores, with a larger group, the reed territory staked out by Evan Parker and now worked by Mats Gustaffson and others. It's an inward, introspective disc (with a few truly clangorous moments: one exquisite example is on "Manhunt") with the emphasis on textural and improvisatory interplay. Interesting from start to finish.

Personnel

Fabio Martini

Album information

Title: Clangori | Year Released: 1998 | Record Label: Leo Records

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