5/16/2023 0 Comments Ben wolfe the whisperer![]() ![]() ![]() His music races from the starting gate frequently enough to wow the ears and quicken the blood. It is easy to hear why the extrovert temperament and big technique of Ben Wolfe has landed him is a premier position as a bassist. Here too drummer Donald Edwards is heard to the fullest extent of his being a rhythmic colourist, given ample space to paint his colours by the walking bass of Mr. And then there is a piece like “S.T.F.U” with a full complement of the quintet where the bassist all on his own is responsible for the impressive sustaining power of the rhythmic intensity something that allows the soprano saxophone to wail with abandon, aided and abetted with the keening trumpet of Josh Evans. Some degree of musical density and feeling has much to do this as well as the outer sections that are appropriately light and soaring. The warmth of the bass and the broad glissandos of the saxophone as well as the statuesque beauty of Orrin Evans’ interjections make the beauty of this music almost unbearable to bear. The pace is superbly controlled and organised. ![]() To me the interminable and elegiac ballad, “Love is Near” stands out as an exemplary piece of work. The then dallying notes make for an intuitive distinction that is rare among younger bassists today. Wolfe employs his unbridled technique to slightly slow down pieces as a variation unfolds. He imbues brisker movements with unusual and persuasive voicings and together with saxophonist Stacy Dillard and pianist Orrin Evans brings a miniature chamber-like integrity to the sweeping, waltz tempo pieces always keeping the melodic notes to the fore. Wolfe’s subtle and discreetly expressive rubatos. The lyrical minor-key variations stand out for Mr. The bassist impresses also for his supple technique, effortless contrapuntal acuity, singing tone, tightly knit tempo relationships and well-considered embellishments. It is true that all of this stands up to closer scrutiny on this rather memorable record. And specifically the bassist’s performance on The Whisperer is the epitomé of that quality, and because of that, one that demonstrates outstanding talent, musicianship and that ethereal thing called personality. This is certainly the case with the composer and bassist, Ben Wolfe. Sometimes the quiet ingenuity of a musician can make the most noise. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |