Yes, there is a quality of mishmash to it all, but nonetheless, this long-awaited recording by
the ICP Orchestra should satisfy those who enjoy the unique sounds that pianist
Misha Mengelberg, drummer
Han Bennink, and the other seven participants create. There are two suites, each divided into three distinct pieces, and not all feature the entire ensemble. For example, the opening section of "Jubilee Varia Suite" is a duo between
Mengelberg and
Bennink, which is followed by a trio of cellists
Ernst Reijseger and
Tristan Honsinger and bassist
Ernst Glerum. Along the way, everyone glows, and there is choice sound from Wolter Wierbos (on trombone), Thomas Heberer (on trumpet), and Michael Moore and Ab Baars (on clarinet and saxophones). Ultimately, it is the originality, the humor, and the wackiness of it all combined with the consummate musicianship, that entertain and impress. The excellent liners by Kevin Whitehead are a plus. ~ Steve Loewy