Sam Bardfeld's Cabal Fatale: Taxidermy

Jazz violinist Sam Bardfeld exhibits a good deal of exuberance, along with proficient chops on his new release for the “CIMP” label, titled – Sam Bardfeld’s Cabal Fatale Taxidermy. Here, the young violinist displays a wide-ranging repertoire as these pieces either skirt the fringes of pure unadulterated free-improv with lots of expressive soloing or they are liable to swing at an often feverish pace. Ex-Prime Time guitarist Ken Wessel provides tonal color, contrast and serves as a near perfect foil for Bardfeld’s mature approach to thematic invention. The top flight rhythm section of bassist Drew Gress and drummer Mike Sarin provide the punch and often stirring rhythmic encounters with the two lead soloists as everyone contributes mightily! While the somewhat infamous recording techniques of “CIMP” come under scrutiny from time to time, which is largely a matter of taste, the sonic qualities of this recording reap good dividends throughout. Bardfeld’s rich wooden tone balances out well with Wessel’s multicolored sonic range on electric guitar. Taxidermy is a strong effort from a musician who has quite a bit to say albeit, in exhilarating fashion! Recommended......* * * *

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