Search - Joe McPhee & Daunik Lazro, Joe & Lazro, Daunik Mcphee :: Elan Impulse

For anyone who loves solo sax a/o sax duets

greg taylor | Portland, Oregon United States | 02/01/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Joe McPhee and Daunik Lazro recorded this gem back in April of 1991. If you are someone who enjoys the sound of solo sax or sax duets, let it be known that this is a classic. Lazro plays bariton and alto sax and McPhee is his usual diverse self playing tenor and soprano sax as well as valve trombone.

McPhee has been around since the late 60s and Lazro, to my knowledge, has been around since the early 80s. They both are steeped in the tradition and take a solo on this CD to pay homage to two of their influences. Lazro plays a beautiful intense alto solo on Steve Lacy's Pearl Street and McPhee plays a deeply felt homage to Duke on Come Sunday.

As for the other pieces be forewarned: advanced techniques abound. Theres much microtonality, much fracturing of tone, many a multiphonic, etc.. And it all is put to such perfect musical use. Be forewarned: melody is everywhere, the blues are essayed, and some influences are quoted. Other than very general statements like that, this is hard music to describe without descending into a personal incoherence. If you want to know what I mean, go to AMG and read the review there. If you are familiar with the genre you will know if you like it or not. If you are not and you are a listener with courage and hope for a new musical experience, then give this CD a purchase and a listen or ten.

And finally, people, let's take a moment to give McPhee in particular some respect. How many people can play both reeds and horns? How many people display such passion and intelligence in their music at the same time? How many people can remain so modest in the face of such accomplishment and stay immune to the temptation of cynicism in the face of being so little valued? The guy's spirit is a wonder and it shines through on these pieces. And in Lazro, McPhee has found a truely kindred spirit.

I have many many CDs featuring solo sax or saxophone duets. This is one of the best. Enjoy.

"