"Double Bass" is a captivating journey into the avant-garde, presented by the virtuoso French double-bassist, composer, and improviser Joëlle Léandre. Released on September 7, 2018, via L'empreinte Digitale, this album is a testament to Léandre's mastery of her instrument and her fearless approach to musical exploration. Collaborating with Austrian pianist Elisabeth Harnik, this debut duo recording is a gripping set of improvisations that push the boundaries of conventional musical forms.
Spanning a generous 118 minutes, "Double Bass" is a deep dive into the experimental, blending elements of free jazz, avant-garde, and krautrock. The album features a mix of solo and duo performances, showcasing the unique voices of both Léandre and Harnik. Tracks like "C'est bien la nuit" and "Réflexions" highlight Léandre's extraordinary technical prowess and her ability to coax a vast array of sounds from her double bass. Meanwhile, pieces like "The Wonderful Widow" and "Valentine" offer a more introspective side, demonstrating the duo's sensitivity and subtlety.
Léandre's career is marked by her innovative spirit and her collaborations with some of the most adventurous musicians in the world. Her work with the Tiger Trio, featuring Nicole Mitchell and Myra Melford, and her duo performances with masters like Barre Phillips, underscore her status as a pioneer in the realm of experimental music. "Double Bass" is a thrilling addition to her discography, offering a unique perspective on the possibilities of the double bass and a fascinating glimpse into the mind of one of the genre's most innovative artists.
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