Search - Nrg Ensemble, Ken Vandermark :: This Is My House

A fitting tribute to Hal Russel

02/12/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I bought this record years ago and for the first time I was introduced to a lot of the Chicago-based musicians that appear on it. Since then, it has really altered a lot of ways of how I listen and create my own music. Following in the great tradition of the Art Ensemble of Chicago, AACM, and people like Hal Russel, Roscoe Mitchell, and Lester Bowie--this group's last album makes it clear that Chicago has been one of the 'Meccas' of creative underground music. This recording offers almost too much: compositonal complexity, blistering improvisations, fascinating and unusual sound scapes, and wicked-tight ensemble playing. For me, Vandermark's tunes are the highlights of this album, which sometimes seem to cross the threshold of control. My only small problem with the record is the quality of recording...at points, some of the sound seems to be lost or a 'trebled-out'..but it is a miniscule detail and very personal critique. Don't let it deter you from experiencing this album.This group is a brain child of Hal Russel, and I couldn't think of a more fitting tribute to the late, great and highly underrated musician. Achtung Chicago music fans!--this is something to get...Just listen to 'In the Middle of Pennsylvania' and you will know what I mean."