Label: Animul Catalog ID: ANI 105 Squidco Product Code: 6125
Format: CD Condition: New Released: 2006 Country: USA Packaging: Cardstock Gatefold Sleeve April 5, 2005 at Acoustic Recording, Brooklyn, NY by Michael Brorby, June 5, 2005 at AudioCue, Berlin, Germany by Rainer Robben (track 10), November 13, 2005 at Park Place Studio, Brooklyn, NY (Tronzo) by Ned Rothenberg
The Animul label is Ned Rothenberg's own, and this release is an amazing demonstration of Rothenberg's abilities both as a leader and a player. On clarinet, bass clarinet and alto sax, his skills in improvisation and writing are powerful, from fluid playing to intense bass clarinet musing or circular phrases that amaze. Joined by Tony Buck from The Necks on drums; Stomu Takeishi, a part of Henry Threadgill's Make a Move, on fretless bass; on three tracks Dave Tronzo (Spanish Fly) on slide guitar; and Joe Williamson on acoustic bass for one piece. This is a performing group and it shows, but it's also a thinking and exploring set of musicians that demonstrate a wide variety of styles and approaches with strength and assurance. The credits state that "All music spontaneously composed by the musicians," which is no doubt true, but Rothenberg's hand in direction and composition is strongly felt. Highly recommended.