World Saxophone Quartet - Four Now (1996) [Jazz][mp3 320][h33t][schon55]

Description

World Saxophone Quartet - Four Now 

Audio CD (March 19, 1996) 

Original Release Date: March 19, 1996 

Label: Justin Time Records 

Bitrate: 320 kbps



The World Saxophone Quartet had been around for about 10 years when they added three percussionists to their 1990 CD
"Metamorphosis".  For (or maybe I should spell it as "four") this 1996 CD they bring back Chief Bey,
Mor Thiam, and Mar Gueye.  "They" are not the same saxophonists as the earlier CD - the WSQ is David Murray,
Hamiett Bluiett, Oliver Lake, and John Purcell.  The opener, "Dou Dou N'Daiye Rose", feels like a neighborhood
stroll with some great saxophonists.  This song was written by Mar Gueye, and two others were written by Mor Thiam,
which points to the collaborative nature of the CD.  "Dakar Darkness" starts more slowly, but is a slower song
with an unspooling melody.  There's a middle section with a poem recited by Oliver Lake.  The poem works very well with
the music.  "Suga" has call-and-response vocals integrated with the music.  It's a Mor Thiam composition, and
I figure the percussionists are singing because I don't understand the words.  "Colors" is a slow blues burn. 
"For Now" is a very loose, free song.  "What A Dream", as its title implies, has a hummable melody,
and plenty of WSQ-style group improv.  "Sangara" closes the CD with a poppy-sounding propulsive beat and vocal
chant from the percussionists (as well as more saxophone).  



I've read one critic say that "Four Now" is better than "Metamorphosis" because the African drummers
are better worked into the music.  I don't agree with either part of that evaluation - I like "Metamorphosis"
a little better, and think the percussion is just fine.  Regardless, if you like the W. S. Q. , or
"Metamorphosis", or want to try something new out, "Four Now" is a fine CD to have.  ~ Anthony
Cooper



It surprises me that this date from WSQ has not yet been commented upon.  It's a solid outing, one which includes Mor
Thiam and other legendary African drummers.  Also noteworythy is Oliver Lake's poetry on "Dakar Darkness,"
which was written by David Murray.  David's bass clarinet playing on that tune is elegant and powerful.  Strongly
recommended.  ~ Rob Hoff



Personnel:

David Murray - Clarinet (Bass), Sax (Tenor)

Hamiet Bluiett - Sax (Baritone), Contra-Alto Clarinet

John Purcell - Flute (Alto), Saxophone, Saxello, Flute, English Horn

Oliver Lake - Sax (Alto), Talking

Chief Bey - Vocals, African Drums

Mar Gueye - Vocals, African Drums

Mor Thiam - Vocals, African Drums



World Saxophone Quartet - Four Now Track Listings:

01  Dou Dou N’Daiye Rose

02  Dakar Darkness

03  Suga

04  Colors

05  For Now

06  What a Dream

07  Sangara

Trackers