Novelty functions as a double-edged sword for performers of obscure instruments. On one hand, bandleaders hire what they know: who would take a chance on a harpist when the pool of good pianists is too deep to plumb? On the other hand, who can resist the urge to hear the world's premier – and to your humble reviewer's knowledge, only – master of this instrument in the jazz idiom?
Most immediately striking is the album's instrumentation. Couterbalancing Castaneda's percussive sound is the purr of trombone, well-chosen effected stabs of guitar, the ring and hum of vibraphone, a round electric bass sound, and solid drumming. Each member of Castaneda's personnel possesses the virtuosity to create a wide variety of colors on their instrument, effecting a multiplication of possible textures for each additional musician.
Marshall Gilkes' trombone playing is singular in its flexibility, allowing immediate juxtaposition of low pedal tones and high singing notes. Gilkes exhibits more virtuosity in his background riffs and melodies than most trombonists do in their most epic solos. Joe Locke's vibraphone blends impeccably with Castaneda's harp, filling out the angular melodies of “Colibri” and “Song of Hope” with characteristic warmth. His solo on the former accelerates quickly, spurned by Castaneda's energetic comping into fluttering cascades. Locke's ebullience intensifies the album, and his rhythmic confidence adds another layer of complexity to an already intricate mix.
Entre Cuerdas is unique in its attention to textural and rhythmic counterpoint. An unusual mix of instruments adds an aspect of originality to this album that should make it irresistible to jazz fans with an appetite for novelty, while its energy and stylistic integrity should give it a solid listener base among more traditional ears.
Release Date:
July 28th, 2009 on ArtistShare Records
Personnel:
- Edmar Castaneda – Harp
- Marshall Gilkes – Trombone
- Dave Silliman – Drums/percussion
- Andrea Tierra – Voice
- John Scofield – Guitar
- Samuel Torres – Cajon
- Joe Locke – Vibraphone
Track List:
- Sabroson
- Entre Cuerdas
- Jesus de Nazareth
- Colibri
- Song of Hope
- Columbian Dixie
- Canto
- Looking Forward
- Afro Seis
