Josephson, Aurora / Leandre, Joëlle / Smith, Damon / Blume, Martin

Cruxes

Label: Balancepointacoustic Country: USA

From Mark Dresser's liner notes: "The extraordinary French master musician, contrabassist, composer, improviser, singer, Joelle Leandre is one of primary champions of contemporary and improvised music in the world. A solo virtuoso performer of such grace, power, and bold presence that over the past thirty years notable composers such as John Cage, Giacinto Scelsi, Betsy Jolas, among others have composed pieces for her. However, her main activity has been in improvised music where she has distinguished herself as an innovative lyric, dynamic, powerhouse soloist and ensemble member. [...] Damon Smith, is a force; one of the most dedicated, committed and able young American improvisers of his generation. As a bass player he can hang with the best as was demonstrated in his duo CD with the great late, Peter Kowald as well as this recording. Smith has a scholarly knowledge of the innovations of improvised music over the last forty years and it is paying off. He is a developing into a master in his own right. [...] In this CD the two bass playing improvisers meet the gifted German drummer/percussionist, Martin Blume who has played and recorded with most of the major figures on the European improvisers circuit. Also the talented singer/improviser, Aurora Josephson, who has absorbed the vocal innovations of contemporary music literature, world music traditions, and is creating a very musical presence of her own. This CD is remarkable for it's at times gorgeous lyricism, power, and quick cut chattering exchanges. At times meditative, drone dominated, at other times a kaleidoscope of independent counterpoint. Enjoy."