Matthias Schubert / Simon Nabatov Duo: Descriptions

Descriptions marks the initial alliance of venerable European improvisers, tenor saxophonist Matthias Schubert and pianist Simon Nabatov. Recorded live at a venue in Cologne, Germany, the musicians plan their modalities on descriptive nouns, which is an interesting proposition that tenders food for thought on a per-track basis. They mold song forms based on ephemeral or lengthy interpretations of a descriptive word. Nonetheless, the program is a composite of penetrating and forward-looking dialogues complete with asymmetrical sensibilities framed on introspection, oscillating or rumbling movements and incongruent tonal swashes. They even mimic the sounds of nature in a few spots, while occasionally delving into microtonal terrain.

"Obliqueness" is a track that vividly declares slanted applications and an indirect schematic as Schubert's opening solo spot lasts two minutes, where he projects a bit of happenstance via off-key, theme-building permutations. Nabatov enters the scenario with opaque and maniacally devised lower-register block chords, as the duo eventually intersects to dish out a flurry of discordant sub-motifs. However, Schubert calms the waters then explodes into a sequence of circular riffs; hence, the piece ends with a faint sob. Here and throughout, the musicians re-imagine the perceived descriptions to employ as a forum for fertile improvisational workouts. Unlike some free form expositions, the artists root their output on implied meanings, executed via similes or perceptions, largely immersed in astute impressionism.

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