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Mat Walerian/Matthew Shipp/Hamid Drake: Jungle: Live At Okuden
ByWalerian himself evokes American rather than European sensibilities, with a soulful blues-inflected cry at the heart of his sound, conspicuously untouched by improv sensibilities. Whether on flute, bass clarinet or alto saxophone, his cool yet lyrical stance achieves it's point through melodic figures, only occasionally edging into dissonance. Shipp's unique approach of equal parts insistent chording, bass register stomps and restless quicksilver patterning, remains evident throughout. In spite of Drake's presence a static feel permeates the set, as rhythmic episodes and fractured grooves rarely last long.
Among the highlights are "One For," credited as a traditional, and with hints of a gospel spiritual but without an overt tune, introduced by Shipp in typical fashion before Drake settles into pulsing time. Walerian's alto wail and Shipp's darkening clusters make this one of the most powerful numbers. That unrelenting, spirited vibe continues on "Coach On Da Mic" where Shipp's opening soliloquy swings between spurts and suspensions, before giving way to Walerian's wheedling soprano clarinet and Drake's brushed patter. The cut ends on another high note with one of Drake's patented endlessly varied cantering drum solos.
Track Listing
CD1: Shrine; Teleport; Gentle Giants; 123 Sylvester 230CE; Ultimate Insurance; Good Trip Is A Safe Trip; Perfect Joint; Watch Your Path; CD2: Gate; One For; Coach On Da Mic; Tiger; Sit Back, Relax and Watch.
Personnel
Mat Walerian
saxophone, altoMat Walerian: alto saxophone, bass clarinet, soprano clarinet, flute; Matthew Shipp: piano; Hamid Drake: drums.
Album information
Title: Jungle: Live At Okuden | Year Released: 2016 | Record Label: ESP Disk
Comments
About Mat Walerian
Instrument: Saxophone, alto
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