A great deal of art is description, or at least representation. Describing or representing love, hate, the universe. None is the right description. Nor the wrong one. This is art after all.
Search Results for: john clare
Sydney’s Jazzgroove association fifth Summer Fiesta was spread over three venues in Ultimo: Foundry616, Lord Wolseley (I was judged too declassé to admit here) and […] Read More
John Clare lost his wallet on the way to Wangaratta this year, but he says “to hear Rava with Steve Magnusson was worth losing my money and cards for”
When I listen to music that has an important place in history I sometimes gaze out the window and feel the here and now more intensely, while also feeling myself in the time when this particular style emerged. I do the same with Haydn, Ornette Coleman and the Beatles. I’m not sure why, but it makes you feel very alive.
“When Jackson first recorded – with the subtle and distinctive Trio Apoplectic – I was not the only one who found a surprising echo of the floating lyricism, unusual intervals and limpid sound of Paul Desmond…”
This is a disc you should perhaps listen to casually at first, (perhaps while ironing your sheets or perhaps just your shirts) then return and take your place in this remarkably silent audience.
His sound is dark and it has a grain and an edge, except when he plays in a soft burble or croon. It can bark and crack with a brittle edge, yet all of it is done with tone, with timbre. His lines are full of invention, expressed in melody and in abstract shapes.
These quite young musicians are students of this music. They love it. They do take it seriously, but authenticity is attained by appearing not to take it seriously.
This album is both intellectual and exciting, earthy and ethereal. The sheer quality of the playing is overwhelming. I sincerely hope that Melbourne continues to embrace the tradition that has evolved around Browne and his disparate associates.
“Even at their softest, smokiest, most meditational or sensual this band keeps the form strong.”