"West meets the subcontinent"
West meets the subcontinent, reaching transcendental planes on the backs of racing melodies in huge unisons.
Many listeners are scared off by the allegation that there is something spiritual about Indian music. I don't know what spirituality is - quite honestly, I have no idea, and the best divining instruments have failed to locate my soul - yet I have enjoyed Indian music for decades, primarily for its combination of rhythmic excitement and melodic euphoria. Blazing excitement is predominant in this collaboration between Paul Grabowsky's Art Orchestra and a brilliant drumming ensemble from South India.
The music of the main work was written by Karaikudi Mani and orchestrated by trombone, shakuhachi and tabla player Adrian Sherriff. It was performed with spectacular success at the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz.
Unlike many other Art Orchestra pieces, this presents its racing melodies in huge unisons, with some contrapuntal diversions and hair-raising improvisations from orchestra members - particularly trumpeters Phil Slater and Scott Tinkler, and saxophonist Sandy Evans.
The Indian drumming tour de force with which the piece reaches its climax will drive any right thinking listener to pillage and plunder...sorry, I mean reach transcendental planes.
Yet, just as interesting is the second work by violinist John Rodgers, in which interludes by the ensemble and the orchestra alternate, until the two unite.
The integration of modern Western elements - including allusions to serialism - and an ancient Indian tradition, is quite outstanding. Also the meshing of the written and improvised Elliott Dalgleish's sopranino saxophone is a highlight.
Add to this an enchanting piece by drummer Niko Schauble. There's much to explore here, many delights. Earthly and otherwise, by all accounts.
- Sydney Morning Herald (John Clare), 06.05.200
