"Looking," the 2002 avant-garde jazz album from Uwe Oberg, is a captivating exploration of sound and improvisation, featuring a unique collaboration with guzheng player Xu Fengxia. Released under the NurNichtNur label, this 16-track album spans 53 minutes of free-form jazz that pushes the boundaries of conventional music structures. The album's title track, "Looking At Does," sets the tone for an album that is as intriguing as it is innovative. Throughout the album, Oberg and Fengxia weave together elements of traditional Chinese music and avant-garde jazz, creating a sonic landscape that is both familiar and otherworldly.
Fengxia's guzheng, often compared to the Japanese koto, adds a rich, microtonal texture to the album, while Oberg's improvisational skills drive the music forward. Tracks like "Volume, Two" and "Five And Some More" showcase the duo's ability to blend structured compositions with spontaneous improvisation. The album's diverse tracklist, featuring pieces with titles like "Tricky" and "From The Center," hints at the wide range of moods and styles explored within its duration.
"Looking" is not just an album; it's an experience that challenges and engages the listener from start to finish. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious explorer of avant-garde music, "Looking" offers a fresh and exciting listen. Dive into the world of Uwe Oberg and Xu Fengxia, and discover the beauty of their unique musical dialogue.
Vinylscout