"SpiderMonkey Strings: Madeleine Dreams" is a captivating journey into the avant-garde jazz realm, crafted by the innovative cornetist and composer Taylor Ho Bynum. Released on September 15, 2009, under SG3 Records, this album is the second recording from Bynum's improvising chamber ensemble, SpiderMonkey Strings, and is a testament to his unique compositional prowess and the ensemble's exceptional interpretative skills.
The centerpiece of the album is Bynum's six-movement secular oratorio, "Madeleine Dreams," inspired by his sister Sarah Shun-lien Bynum's award-winning novel, "Madeleine is Sleeping." This ambitious work explores themes of logic and transformation, with each movement offering a distinct sonic landscape. From the hushed beginnings of "Hush" to the playful exploration of "Le Petomane," and the introspective "Lesson," the album unfolds like a narrative, culminating in the evocative "Objects Lost on Journeys" and the reprise of "Hush."
Beyond the titular composition, the album features other standout tracks like "What Reason Could I Give," "The Mooche," and "Angels and Demons at Play," each showcasing the ensemble's dynamic range and Bynum's inventive arrangements. The ensemble, which includes notable musicians like violinist Jason Kao Hwang, violist Jessica Pavone, and guitarist Pete Fitzpatrick, delivers a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply expressive.
With a runtime of 45 minutes, "SpiderMonkey Strings: Madeleine Dreams" is a rich and rewarding listen, offering a blend of free jazz and avant-garde elements that push the boundaries of traditional jazz. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album promises a thought-provoking and engaging musical experience.
