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Andrew Lisle Alex Ward: Doors
ByRather than blocking together tracks featuring the same instrument, Doors alternates them, so emphasising the contrasts between Ward's clarinet and guitar playing. These contrasts are far more to do with the differences between the two instruments themselves than Ward having a Dr Jekyll personality! In each case he explores the limits of the instrument which takes him to very different places sonically. The first guitar piece, "Back," exemplifies this as it starts off very laid-back then accelerates as Ward elaborates and explores phrases. The second clarinet piece, "Open," follows a similar route from a smooth, mellow opening to a barnstorming climax. Each of the two makes the transition feel natural and unforced, without any clunky gear changes or jump cuts.
Thanks to Lisle, just as noteworthy are the contrasts between these duets and Ward's solo recordings; while keeping an ear on the music's pulse, the drummer operates as an equal partner with Ward, exchanging phrases, supporting and goading when necessary without hogging the limelight. The end product is music that is full of character and variety; from one track to the next, it is impossible to predict what one will hear, but it is certain it will be highly listenable and engaging. This duo has a bright future.
Track Listing
Front; Back; Open; Closed.
Personnel
Alex Ward
multi-instrumentalistAlex Ward: clarinet (1, 3), guitar (2, 4); Andrew Lisle: drums.
Album information
Title: Doors | Year Released: 2018 | Record Label: Copepod Records
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About Alex Ward
Instrument: Multi-instrumentalist
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