Acoustic Quartet

Album Description

"Acoustic Quartet," released on January 1, 1994, under the prestigious ECM Records label, is a captivating exploration of French jazz and free jazz by the renowned clarinetist and composer Louis Sclavis. This album, featuring a stellar lineup including Dominique Pifarély on violin, François Jeanneau on saxophone, Bruno Chevillon on bass, and François Merville on drums, showcases Sclavis's unique compositional style and improvisational prowess.

The album spans a rich hour of music, divided into eight intricate tracks: "Sensible," "Bafouée," "Abrupto," "Elke," "Hop!," "Seconde," "Beata," and "Rhinoceros." Each piece is a testament to the quartet's collective virtuosity and their ability to blend structured compositions with spontaneous improvisation. Sclavis's clarinet weaves through the ensemble, providing a lyrical counterpoint to the dynamic interplay between the violin, saxophone, bass, and drums.

"Acoustic Quartet" is a standout release in Louis Sclavis's discography, highlighting his innovative approach to jazz. The album's intricate arrangements and the quartet's impeccable musicianship make it a compelling listen for jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Whether you're a fan of French jazz, free jazz, or simply appreciate finely crafted music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

1 januari 1994

℗ 1994 ECM Records GmbH, under exclusive license to Deutsche Grammophon GmbH, Berlin

About Louis Sclavis

Louis Sclavis is a renowned French jazz musician, celebrated for his mastery of the clarinet, bass clarinet, and soprano saxophone. Born in Lyon in 1953, Sclavis began his musical journey at the age of ten, honing his skills with his local brass band before advancing his training at the Lyon Conservatory. His eclectic influences range from the avant-garde jazz of the Art Ensemble of Chicago to the progressive rock of Soft Machine, shaping his unique musical voice.

Throughout his career, Sclavis has been a pioneer in various jazz genres, including avant-garde, free jazz, and free improvisation, as well as contemporary classical music. He has collaborated with numerous esteemed musicians, such as Michel Portal, Henri Texier, and Dominique Pifarély, and has received multiple awards and accolades for his contributions to the jazz world. His work with ECM Records, starting with his debut in 1991, has further solidified his reputation as one of the finest clarinetists in jazz today. Sclavis's performances are known for their clarity, precision, and emotional depth, making him a standout figure in the global jazz scene.