Jack's Fat Cat

Immerse yourself in the avant-garde world of Carl Vollrath with his captivating album "Jack's Fat Cat," released on August 12, 2008, under MMC Recordings. This two-and-a-half-hour musical journey showcases Vollrath's mastery of the clarinet and piano, along with his skillful collaborations with flute, creating a rich tapestry of sound that is both innovative and engaging.

The album is a collection of Vollrath's works spanning from 1959 to 2006, offering a retrospective of his evolution as a composer. It opens with the Sonata No. 1 for Clarinet and Piano, a four-movement piece that sets the tone for the album with its dynamic range and expressive depth. The Four Pieces for Clarinet & Piano from 1978 follow, each with its own distinct character, from the flowing "Endless Ebb" to the rhythmic "Tribal Machine."

Vollrath's later works are also well-represented, including the Sonata No. 3 for Clarinet and Piano from 1991, and the Trio No. 1 for Flute, Clarinet, and Piano from 1979. The album also features some of Vollrath's more playful and whimsical pieces, such as "Quips & Quirks" from 2005 and "Jack's Fat Cat" from 2006.

Throughout the album, Vollrath's avant-garde style shines, with complex rhythms, unexpected harmonies, and a keen sense of phrasing. His use of the clarinet is particularly noteworthy, with its rich, expressive sound taking center stage in many of the pieces.

"Jack's Fat Cat" is a testament to Carl Vollrath's enduring contribution to the world of avant-garde music. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to his work, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.