A sneak peek of a track from the forthcoming Simon Henneman Quartet record ( RECORD RELEASE SHOW - SEPT 20th at the JOSEPHINE ) https://soundcloud/simonhenneman/liuzzas AND the liner notes by John Sinclair! Sermons From Science is an album of extraordinary music by Simon Hennemen and his Seattle henchmen. From the stunning cover design illuminating the album’s title to the last note of the evocative “Sermons from Science,” this package provides a top-flight artistic experience rarely found in today’s ugly cultural environment. I trust you will be able to hear this for yourself, but the playing on this recording is filled with the excitement of discovery and accomplished self-expression as the ensemble works its way through a suite of Henneman’s imaginative compositions, led by Simon’s muscular guitar and the powerful saxophonics of Kenny Mandell and propelled by the unfailing support and deep sensitivity of bassist John Seman and drummer Mark Ostrowski, a 20-year rhythmic partnership elsewhere noted as “in all likelihood the most telepathic musical combination in Seattle.” Telepathy is a good word for what these four musicians do together. Theyve know each other for a long time, they know the music inside out and they know how to play it. The songs are well-made and swinging and the players interpret and extend them with vigor, intelligence and fiercely personal instrumental expression. What more can we ask for? I can’t say enough about the level of playing thoughout. Henneman has an approach strictly his own and his solos are consistently compelling, dense with feeling and drive. Kenny Mandell is a brilliant soloist in every setting and sounds strictly like himself, sparring and blending with Simon and discoursing on the composer’s themes with remarkable coherence. And again, the splendid rhythm section is right there with them every step of the way. I’ve really enjoyed my repeated listenings to this album and commend it to imaginative music lovers without reservation. Seattle is very fortunate indeed to have an ensemble of this high caliber in residence.
Posted on: Wed, 10 Sep 2014 19:32:41 +0000
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