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Christian Tamburr: The Awakening (Sounds For Sculpture)
ByComposing ten workseach referencing a specific Johnson sculpture in name and toneTamburr cuts a broad swath with his pen. The motile machinations of the upbeat title trackone of three pieces featuring vocalist Clint Holmespoint to the upward surge of its model, which appears to emerge from the great below. "Between Appointments," pairing Tamburr's vibes with part-time presence Dominick Farinacci's muted trumpet, delivers buoyant charms in line with the image of a fountain spouting behind a man sleeping on bench. "Hiding in the Light (Stainless Girl)" deals in placid thoughts surrounding Johnson's silvery creation, with Keith Ganz's guitar beneath Holmes' warm vocals. And closer "Embracing Peace," featuring Billy Thornton's expressive bass, touches on the tenderness at play in the famous image of a sailor kissing a nurse.
Some offerings, like the chipper, waltzing "Day Dream," play as pure energy. A capering, Vince Guaraldi-esque winner that bounds along in gleeful fashion, it leaves plenty of space for soloists while projecting light. But there's also a sly and alluring streak here, as injected into the mix through the intoxicating "Exotica Tropicalls," and a reflective angle, exhibited during "A Thought to Consider." Tamburr ties it all to Johnson's work with the help of some sympathetic soulsthe aforementioned players, pianist Scott Giddens, drummer John Davis, and percussionist Michael Dobsonand there's never any doubt that the music, while meant to work with the sculptures, can also stand on its own. Johnson, who passed away just shy of his 90th birthday and just prior to the album's early 2020 U.S. release, created wonders of sight and vision during his long life. Now Tamburr has created an aural complement that speaks to the strengths of his own art and its inspirations.
Track Listing
The Awakening; Between Appointments; A Thought to Consider; Crack the Whip; Exotica Tropicalls; Hiding in the Light (Stainless Girl); Double Check: 9/11 Survivor; Day Dream; Jazz Dreams; Embracing Peace.
Personnel
Christian Tamburr
vibraphoneScott Giddens
pianoBilly Thornton
bassJohn Davis
drumsMichael Dobson
percussionAdditional Instrumentation
Dominick Farinacci: trumpet (1, 2, 4, 5, 9); Clint Holmes: vocals (1, 3, 6); Keith Ganz: guitar (5, 6).
Album information
Title: The Awakening (Sounds For Sculpture) | Year Released: 2020 | Record Label: Self Produced
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About Christian Tamburr
Instrument: Vibraphone
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