Search - Tim Berne, Marc Ducret, Tom Rainey :: Big Satan

Laughing between my ears

05/10/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Violent, free, beautiful, and human. I could not find better words.These men are actually playing a much too much exciting music. I don't know if jazz remains the best descriptor.Winter & Winter is a new label designed for this kind of strange guys. Read their catalog, and if you came to Big Satan via Tim Berne, look for Marc Ducret's other records."

Uncompromising music for these troubled times

Charles D Walker | Brooklyn, NY United States | 09/18/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

""I think they liked it honey" (actual title) - I know I did.At a long 77 minutes, this set should come as no surprise to long-term Berne fans; he frequently stretches out in order to complicate, redefine, and intrigue. This set, notable for its inclusion of *genie francais* Marc Ducret on guitar, is similar in methodology, but unique in texture.Berne doubles on baritone and alto, and provides lines clear and brittle like Jimmy Lyons or Julius Hemphill. Also, as drummer Tom Rainey is often involved in rupturing the rhythm and then congealing it, Berne is often forced to keep the pulse while inventing new melodic shells- almost like an R&B horn section finally trying to explain the ugly truths underneath its veneer. Throughout, Ducret never shies from flipping his switch to eleven and bouncing cagily through the proceedings. He provides a surprising flavor that sits satisfyingly in the belly.Overall, challenging long-form tunes with enough twists, dives, and truths to reward repeated listenings."