"Sonic Fiction" is a captivating album that blends the raw energy of free jazz with the experimental spirit of avant-garde music. Released in 2007 on the Swiss label hatOLOGY, this collaborative effort features the dynamic trio of pianist Georg Graewe, cellist Ernst Reijseger, and percussionist Gerry Hemingway. Recorded live in 1989, the album's eight tracks offer a thrilling journey through improvisational landscapes, showcasing the musicians' extraordinary skill and creativity.
Graewe's piano work is a standout feature, with his proportional rhythms and constant tempo shifts keeping the music in a state of perpetual motion. Reijseger's cello playing is equally impressive, gliding, swooping, and sharp-shooting his way through the compositions with remarkable agility. Hemingway's percussive contributions add depth and texture, grounding the music while also pushing it to new heights.
The album's title track, "Sonic Fiction," sets the tone with its intricate interplay and spontaneous energy. Other highlights include "Alien Corn I," "Fibulation," and "Aspects of Somnambulism/Demure Scuttle," each offering a unique blend of improvisation and composition. The album's duration of 68 minutes ensures that listeners are fully immersed in the experience, with each track building on the last to create a cohesive and compelling whole.
"Sonic Fiction" is a testament to the power of improvisation and the beauty of spontaneous creation. It's a must-listen for fans of free jazz and avant-garde music, and a testament to the enduring legacy of these three extraordinary musicians.
