Astrogeny now
John C. Graham | toronto, ontario Canada | 09/22/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"John Blum is a pianist to watch. He's been around for a while and, as far as I know, has just one other cd available- a solo piano outing on Drimala. He's also on three cuts of a spectacular Sunny Murray disc-Perles Noir Vol.2-on Eremite.
On this recording he's teamed up with Denis Charles, William Parker, and-a new name for me-Antonio Grippi, an alto sax and bass clarinet player of Italian decent who's been playing in the states for over twenty years now. This may be his recording debut.
The music may initially remind some listeners of Cecil Taylor with Jimmy Lyons and there are the obvious comparisons. It's high energy music, intense and probing, throbbing bass notes, aggitated alto lines, and the most beautiful percussive underlay imaginable. Denis Charles just sounds incredible here.
When the music slows, Mr. Grippi's bass clarinet takes it into a quieter, less intense area. His choice of notes is fresh and edgy. It's a really nice sound he gets and when he's done, he leaves you wanting more.
There is a nice mix of intensities on this disc. Everyone's playing is exceptional-Denis Charles gives a standout performance, William Parker is always good, Antonio Grippi is another unique voice, and John Blum has major talent. There is no reason NOT to want this disc. It's a cut above most everything else."