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Jim Nolet: Syzygy
Six Degrees of Separation. I have always thought the violin was a difficult jazz instrument that even the best players can come up sounding just a little off base. Nolet plays some of the most satisfying jazz violin I have heard recently. The opening Latin shuffle of Stanley Turrentine’s “Shirley” finds Nolet whipping out centrafugally, creating in fractured integrity held together by concept and design. Bryan Carrott’s vibes are a delight, ringing against the dry tang of Nolet’s playing. That Latin thing reappears on the disc closer, Ellington’s “Angelica”. Nolet’s playing is smooth and expressive.
Endgame. Syzygy is an eclectic chestnut, and essential confection of difficult music played on a difficult instrument. Really, this is the most satisfying jazz violin disc I have heard since...well, since I’ve been listening!
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I'm Sanctified and Southern Fried / Mama tried and daddy cried / I tell the truth 'cept when I've lied / And like my huevos on the side.
Track Listing
Shirley; Central Park West; Mr. Rodrique; Tycoon; Syzygy; Love Can See; Sshhh
Personnel
Jim Nolet: Violin, Viola; Tim Hagans: Trumpet; Arturo O
Album information
Title: Syzygy | Year Released: 1999 | Record Label: Cathexis Records
About Jim Nolet
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