Swiss saxophonist
Co Streiff leads this quartet through an organic, multi-directional program inspired by her travels to the Libyan desert, namely a depression (Qattara) that was once the bottom of a sea.
Streiff and her associates cover quite a bit of musical terrain here, yet the band maintains a sense of identity throughout. On this release, the listener will notice traces of New Orleans brass band-type stylizations to coincide with the soloists' fiercely executed, modern jazz-based exchanges. The divergent track mix features African rhythms complete with Ben Jeger's rather fluffy accordion work on the trance-like piece titled "Second Celebration." The sextet embarks upon free-form escapades as well, amid the musicians' exuberant workmanship.
Streiff is a melodic soloist, whether performing on alto or soprano saxophones. But Jeger's inclusion of a clavinet and an old Farfisa organ produces a late-'60s psychedelic touch on works such as "Siwa." Nonetheless, this is a captivating effort from beginning to end. ~ Glenn Astarita