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Håvard Wiik: This Is Not a Waltz
By Track review of "Mnemonic Functions"Wiik injects Thelonious Monk and Ornette Coleman mini-motifs into some of his works. But the prevailing factors are centered upon his strong original compositions. Indeed, it's vividly noticeable that the musicians are in-synch and score high marks for their collective chemistry. They are agile, hard-hitting and whirl through complex unison choruses with precision and eloquence. The band is also apt to drastically contrast a given theme as they zoom in for the kill or throw the listener for a loop with unexpected detours.
"Mnemonic Functions" is the final track and is partly built on a reverse-engineered, cyclical theme amid Wiik's flailing abstract classical type maneuvers. However, drummer Håkon Mjåset Johansen is on fire, as he incorporates small bells, cymbals, a cowbell and other implements to complement an explosive polyrhythmic attack. Meanwhile, bassist Ole Morten Vågan lays down a timestamp with bulging notes, and ups the ante when the trio gels to a frenzied free bop groove.
It's a wickedly intense piece intensified by Wiik's fluctuating chord voicings, yet toned-down towards the finale, where his warmly crafted harmonics atop the rhythm section's temperate support segues into a whispering fadeout. Essentially, Wiik and associates execute a multidimensional performance, incited by the spell-binding finale "Mnemonic Functions" and other works that pose a host of beguiling developments.
Track Listing
Calligrams; Neidbau; Tudor Style; Bought & Muzzled; Ceci N'est Pas Une Valse; Tear Conveyor; Pneumatiques; Mnemonic Functions.
Personnel
Håvard Wiik
pianoHåvard Wiik; piano; Ole Morten Vågan: bass; Håkon Mjåset Johansen: drums.
Album information
Title: This Is Not a Waltz | Year Released: 2017 | Record Label: Moserobie
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Håvard Wiik
CD/LP/Track Review
Glenn Astarita
This Is Not A Waltz
Moserobie
joe lovano
Ken Vandemark
Thelonious Monk
Ornette Coleman