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Geof Bradfield, Myra Melford, Ben Goldberg, Dana Hall: Open Or Close
The foursome obviously had a game plan, and the audience at the Green Mill seems to have been on board with that. But when said plan consists for the most part of drab and disorderly melodies and unwieldy solos (at best), it is hard to leap on the bandwagon, as there is not a single track on the album that does not come across as less than ponderous and problematic.
Keep in mind, however, that this is one listener's opinion; others' ears may be far better attuned to the sort of music that prevails throughout most of the concert. Suffice to say that it is definitely cutting-edge, and that many jazz enthusiasts who are accustomed to the genre's more time-honored designs may find little of interest on Open or Close.
Which is a shame, as these are four talented musicians with exemplary creds who would more than likely rest comfortably in any format. The choice here was to accentuate the avant-garde at the expense of more traditional elements such as swing and even charm. The few charming moments in this concert are outweighed by extended passages wherein turmoil and discord seem to hold sway. Again, that is one listener's opinion and should by no means be taken to the bank.
The musicians in question are saxophonist Geof Bradfield and drummer Dana Hall from Chicago, pianist Myra Melford and clarinetist Ben Goldberg from the Coast. As noted, all are experienced jazz artists who could ace any musical test, regardless of style or substance. Choosing to ride the new wave on Open or Close was a conscious and collective decision, one that some listeners will presumably greet with enormous enthusiasm while others may be left scratching their heads and wondering exactly what such clearly accomplished players are doing and why.
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Track Listing
Open or Close; A Line With a Mind of Its Own; No Brand; Study of the Blues; Three Ingredients; Lonely Flowers; The Kitchen; Aargh.
Personnel
Additional Instrumentation
Geof Bradfield: soprano saxophone, bass clarinet; Ben Goldberg: contra alto clarinet.
Album information
Title: Open Or Close | Year Released: 2026 | Record Label: Calligram Records
About Geof Bradfield
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Geof Bradfield Concerts
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