Hugh Ragin: Revelation
Harmony can be constructed in such a way that it will give music a sharp edge. Here, Ragin takes this principle one step farther. He and Tsahar have honed the tone quality of their respective instruments so that even one lone sustained note will exhibit this quality. It's not the lush, pretty tone quality that we've associated with dreamy ballads and classic themes. Ragin and Tsahar deliver a rawboned tone quality that maintains its acuteness throughout this creative session.
Impressions abound. "The Battlefield" emulates a bugler's charge, with war-torn agony affecting the quartet's collaboration. They've captured the outdoor scenes and sounds completely. Shrieks and squeals accompany this one, as well as "Speak to the Mountain," which provides a warning of risk. "Skull Hill," a dirge, adds woeful cries of pain and agony. Both "Night Life" and "Kamal's Gift" give the impression of a free-flowing nightclub scene, combining mainstream jazz with this quartet's highly creative spirit.
Track Listing
Restoration Intensive; Kamal's Gift; Revelation; The Battlefield; Skull Hill; Night Life; Wormwood; Speak to the Mountain; Next Time
Personnel
Hugh Ragin (trumpet, piccolo trumpet, pocket trumpet), Assif Tsahar (tenor saxophone, bass clarinet, musette), William Parker (bass, musette, pocket trumpet), Hamid Drake (drums, percussion)
Album information
Title: Revelation | Year Released: 2004 | Record Label: Justin Time Records
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About Hugh Ragin
Instrument: Trumpet
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