Search - Wolfgang Muthspiel & Gary Peacock :: Muthspiel & Peacock

Space and interplay

David Watts | Houston, TX | 03/19/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Well, I had no idea what top expect from this release. I really had nothing to go on, because although I know something about the work on Peacock and Motian (especially from their efforts with Paul Bley) I had heard nothing from the Muthspiel brother. The brothers are a strange combination, Wolfgang Muthspiel plays guitar, while brother Christian plays the trombone. So what we have is a strange trombone, guitar, bass and drum set.The booklet gives precious little detail, so I had to let the music speak for itself. And I must say, I am not often totally blown out of the water like this. Sounding every bit like an ECM release (actually the label Amadeo is completely unknown to me) this CD has plenty of space for both brothers to do their thing. Backed by the superb rhythm section of Motion and Peacock, they really stretch out, leaving out any notes that might interfere with the calm, centered music. Not to say there are not moments of excitement. The guitar work is very lovely indeed, and the trombone is played in a fashion I have not heard before. At times it sounds like Christian is barely blowing, more like hissing as he backs his brother.I should mention that Peacock is in top form (funny to find some Peacock gems hidden on this CD.) Peacock really should be singled out, because at times the MuthSpeil brothers simply step aside and let Motian and Peacock improvise together. Anyone familiar with the work of the former would be more than happy with what is heard here.All in all and amazing purchase made on a whim. I cannot tell you how wonderful this CD is, and how surprised I am that I would find such incredible performances in this combination. But I did, and I heartily recommend it to anyone who is willing to listen."