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Konstantin Ionenko Quartet: Noema
ByThis music leans more towards the impressionistic contemporary jazz of the Deep Tone Project than the hard-bop oriented Quintet. The flugelhorn/guitar combination makes for a lighter ensemble sound, well suited to the generally mellow mood. The title "noema" derives from the Greek word for thought or the object of thought, and Ionenko says the music is "about the philosophy of consciousness and feeling." It is indeed thoughtful music, but feeling is never absent. The aptly titled opener "Kaleidoscope" includes the full stylistic spectrum. After a brief fanfare from the full band, flugelhorn and drums get an extended duet: but by the end there's a swing section with walking bass. "Imprinted Acerbity" is all atmosphere, bass in the lead with guitar volume swells and cymbal splashes (fluegelhornist Bondarev sits this one out). "Far Out" doesn't seem to deliver what the title promises (perhaps it's meant geographically instead of stylistically), but it's an attractive tune, followed by the lovely ballad "Glassy."
"Four Doors" features an unaccompanied guitar opening by Maksymiw: like most of his playing on the record, he delivers lyrical mainstream jazz guitar in a modern setting. Ionenko gives himself the unaccompanied spot on the following "Prelude," a contemplative, rubato piece. The title tune and "November" are as gentle as the titles imply, the last giving drummer Galitsky the opportunity for expressive brushwork. A beautiful ending to a beautiful album; Ionenko continues to grow as composer and bandleader with each new release. The CD comes in an equally striking package, a gatefold with an abstract, impressionistic pastel image that captures the mood of the music. ECM fans should take note.
Track Listing
Kaleidoscope; Imprinted Acerbity; Far Out; Glassy; Four Doors; Prelude; Noema; November.
Personnel
Konstantin Ionenko
bassDima Bondarev: flugelhorn; Alex Maksymiw: guitar; Konstantin Ionenko: bass; Pavel Galitsky: drums.
Album information
Title: Noema | Year Released: 2016 | Record Label: Fancy Music
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About Konstantin Ionenko
Instrument: Bass
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