Multi-instrumentalist Ken Vandermark and drummer Paal
Nilssen-Love have been pillars of he free jazz scene for decades, and simpatico
partners for nearly that length. They have recorded together in any number of
configurations, but this might be the most interesting, live duo performances
spanning several countries, some of which of which had excellent musicians sitting
in with the duo. Without a bassist, you might think this music would be
difficult to make it as an improvised format, or its centrifugal force would
collapse but this is not so as the musicians reach a mind meld level of connectivity.
We learn this quickly on the first two discs recorded in Moscow. There are potent
and exciting tenor saxophone and drums duets, developing into a great
free-flowing conversation. Politics and worldviews may change and differ, but
music crosses all borders as proved by these spacious, yet powerful duo
performances. The two musicians have a compatible relationship playing
together, understanding speed, tone, complexity and space. That fact is brought
to bear, as Nilssen-Love remains an ever-potent force on drums and percussion,
while Vandermark deploys his saxophones along with clarinets with great facility.
Things get even more interesting as they move to other cities and interact with
some of the finest improvisers available. Moving to Tokyo for three discs, the
duo takes on two separate improvisers, performing with pianist Masahiko Satoh
on the first half of the disc and American electric guitarist Jim O’Rourke on
the second half. The tracks with O’Rourke are particularly interesting because
he brings in a no holds barred sensibility of post-rock and avant-garde music
that takes the music in a completely different direction. They even add extra
saxophone and clarinet and drums at one point, in addition to the fascinating
and exiting sound of the electric and acoustic koto. You get to see them up
close and personal on the DVD recorded in London, where flutters and taps
develops to howls and slamming beats and then back again. Tenor saxophonist
Mike Beck adds even more heft (if that’s possible) to the concluding track.
Finally back home (for Vandermark anyway) at the Hide Out in Chicago, for the
finale of the exhausting set, the listener may be overwhelmed, but the
musicians not at all as they tear through another high energy set that seems
like it could go on forever. This is music that was deserving of being recorded
in this depth and detail. It was a fine example of two great musicians being
locked in the moment with appreciation of their partner’s strength and the
openness to welcome others. The music is vigilant and free over the course of
different textures and patterns, and constantly engaging to the listener. Ken Vandermark and Paal Nilssen Love - Extended Duos Catalytic Sound.
Send comments to Tim.
