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i m a g i n e the s o u n d
Bill Smith |
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One could choose specific tracks from this CD, although this is not necessary, as they all contain the quality and brilliance one would expect from these two master musicians. Born two decades apart - Stan Tracey (1926), Evan Parker (1944) - they represent the pinnacle of distinct English disciplines. Tracey, a mainstay of the modern jazz scene, influenced by the music of Duke Ellington and Thelonious Monk, was throughout the sixties the resident pianist at the legendary Ronnie Scott club, as well as leading influential bands that ranged from intimate modern jazz ensembles to large orchestras. Parker, as is known to readers of this journal, is the most important saxophonist to emerge in the current music, introducing numerous concepts to the ever evolving "new music" forms. Both are well represented on recordings, but never together as in this dazzling pairing.
Eight of the eleven pieces are duets, two being piano solos and one solo tenor saxophone. With the exception of the trilogy of "New Fork (for Newk)", the solo tenor piece, minimally referencing his prodigious multi-phonic circular breathing techniques, segueing into a duet of the title piece and on into the solo piano of "Special Purpose", they are, as the subtitle suggests, a sequence of free improvisations.
Although much of the material could be considered melodious in a traditional way, the development of the pieces establish a continuum, moving from one presented drama to another; a series of eloquent conversations rather than a story form. They contain imaginings of "balladic" and "swing" characteristics, with Tracey's thoughtful piano work and Parker's delicious tone and control, creating pointillistic scenarios of great subtlety with occasional brawny overtones. Each obviously influencing the other's route. The state of being kept in suspense, and the action of looking forward, clearly illustrated.
A superb recording of two unique musicians.
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Stan Tracey & Evan Parker
