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Froy Aagre – 16/11/08 Spice of Life, LJF

21/11/08
To bear witness to a live Froy Aagre performance is to be charmed. Her distinctive quality lies in blurring the line between pre-performance composition and in-performance composition (improvisation) by making a clear and concerted effort that both are inspired by the same thought, feeling or conception.

There is therefore a wonderful musical symmetry and cohesion to her playing. This gives rise to a real sense that substantive communication is taking place, that not just this player, nor just this music but each particular song has something to say. This impression is strengthened by Aagre’s playing style which has a great story-telling quality. Her themes and phrases are often invocative of Bach in their enticing lyricism, while their execution and delivery echoes Wayne Shorter at his most playful.

The first set was composed entirely of new, unreleased material which inevitably contributed to the band’s fresh and mischievous spirit. They also demonstrated great variety in their playing, while maintaining a distinctive identity. From a light Latin shuffle on “Cycle of Silence”, through a jaunty funk on “3/4” to an arresting foray into the avant-garde on “Black Old”. Andreas Ulvo’s (piano) muted solo on “Words on an Envelope” was a sublime addition to the Nordic charm and mysticism created by the group.

Kenny Wheeler’s impact in the second set was immediate. His tone, lyricism and range were instantly recognisable and together with his compositions had an utterly thrilling effect on the music. The feeling he conjures is that of a melancholic who has the audacity to hope for a brighter future. The context is melancholy, the feeling is aspiration, hope. Froy Aagre may be described as an emerging artist. If this is the start of her journey, then long may it continue.

Review - Joseph Kassman-Tod

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Last Updated ( 21/11/08 )

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