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Jason Robinson: Tiresian Symmetry

By Glenn Astarita
December 21, 2012
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Immersed in the myths of ancient Greece, multi-reedman Jason Robinson underscores this major work based on the prophet Tiresias, who lived as both a man and woman. Nonetheless, Robinson has proven that change and risk-taking via the power of his pen and acute technical skills have become a de facto standard. From a jazz standpoint, he employs an impressive support structure to carry out his strategy. Robinson's nonet is postured to mimic the finesse of a big band or blow walls down with concentrated small group improvisational blowouts.

The leader's compositions convey a striking degree of contrasts. Whether its raucous tuba dialogues, sprinting rhythmic thrusts or carefully coordinated thematic developments, he uncannily merges catchy, tension-building themes with a no- nonsense mode of operations. Each instrumentalist is a vital cog in the wheel of success, especially since the program proceeds with the impetus of an action-packed cinematic thriller. Spanning multi-timbre hues, whirling flutes, a whack of a glockenspiel and punishing crescendos, Robinson engineers a vibrant montage of memorable works, partly seasoned with punishing horns choruses.

At times, the band zigzags through loose-groove dyads and a laidback gait, but kicks out the jams on the

John Coltrane

saxophone
1926 - 1967

" data-original-title="" title="">John Coltrane-esque "Radiate," where Robinson soars to the netherworld with spiritual assurance. Riding above a medium-tempo and pumping cadence, this piece features a dueling contest between tubaists

Marcus Rojas

tuba
b.1963

" data-original-title="" title="">Marcus Rojas and

Bill Lowe

trombone, bass

" data-original-title="" title="">Bill Lowe (who also alternates on bass trombone) amid angst ridden horn escapades, frothy detours, and multilayered horns choruses. Guitarist

Liberty Ellman

guitar

" data-original-title="" title="">Liberty Ellman's animated electric guitar soloing spearheads a cosmic reckoning, sparked with guileful electronics maneuvers.

A recurring implication may be that the seatbelt should be fastened before listening to this tune. Imagery of this nature may also apply to "Elbow Grease," as a seething Johnny-on-the-spot breakout is composed of asymmetrical parts bop, free jazz, and a compact bass and horns ostinato. Robinson is a modern-era apostle, summoning a new jazz order.

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Track Listing

Stratum 3; Tiresian Symmetry; Radiate; Saros; Elbow Grease; Introduction; Elbow Grease; Corduroy; Cosmolographie.

Personnel

Jason Robinson

saxophone, tenor

Jason Robinson: tenor sax, alto flute, soprano sax; JD Parran: alto clarinet, contra bass clarinet, tenor sax; Marty Ehrlich: alto sax, bass clarinet, flute; Marcas Rojas: tuba; Bill Lowe: tuba, bass trombone; Liberty Ellman: guitar; Drew Gress: bass; George Schuller: drums; Ches Smith: drums, glockenspiel.

Album information

Title: Tiresian Symmetry | Year Released: 2012 | Record Label: Cuneiform Records

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