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Moncef Genoud "AQUA"

Bleek Gilliam | Los Angeles, CA USA | 04/04/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

""Aqua" is Moncef Genoud's 10th studio album, and his first for his new label, the legendary Savoy Jazz. It brings together an impressive line-up consisting of Moncef, Michael Brecker, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Bill Stewart and Scott Colley. Produced by C.Chill for Rollin' Dice Productions, the project was recorded in New York City and demonstrates the level of Moncef's maturity as a jazz composer, arranger and performer. Dubbed his most ambitious project so far, "Aqua" comprises seven original compositions and three covers.



The record opens with "Out Of The Blue", which Moncef wrote in the scope of a few hours. The tune starts with an apparent nonchalant melody, which, after an in-depth bass solo, evolves into a strong, melancholic minor-chord structure. This change of feel within the song turns out to be a leitmotiv throughout the album, perhaps Moncef's way to express the diversity of emotions that life, or even a year or a day, can bring about. "Aqua", the title track, is a soulful dialogue between Moncef and Michael, with an interesting double modulation arrangement. It escalates into a fierce call-and-response, before ending peacefully. "Sliding Shadows", the most avant-garde composition of the record, begins with Moncef playfully using the Steinway as a percussion instrument, with Bill and Scott gladly accommodating his temporary lapse of reason. The song then calmly settles into its non-quaternary structure. The fourth track, "Times Square Circle", is a swinging "Monk-esque" tune that allows for hearty bass and drums solos. It is followed by a bold, astonishing arrangement of "Summertime", the originality of which is accentuated by a bar of 5 at the end of each 4-bar phrase. "Lovely Vij'", a piano/saxophone duet, is a sweet ballad that sounds, remarkably, like an instant standard. Follows a rendition of Coltrane's "Moment's Notice", over which Moncef flies with style and fluidity, proof being the exquisite transitions between the sections. "Mix Of Keys" begins with Bill's signature stroke, and quickly becomes a conversation between Moncef and Michael. It is at times monologue, dialogue or call-and-response, but always conscious and respectful of each other's artistry and melodic ideas. None of the musicians are intimidated by the complex structure and chord changes, and they display their individual skills with vigor. "Moncef's Mood" is a tune with a nostalgic feel. It comprises an imaginative bass solo by Scott, and ends in triplet form thanks to Bill's instinctive flair. The set concludes with a cover of Billy Strayhorn's classic "Lush Life". Recorded in Switzerland with Moncef's Trio (Thierry Hochstätter on drums and Frédéric Folmer on bass), the ballad begins with a mood-setting piano intro, closely followed by the warm, sultry voice of the great Dee Dee Bridgewater. She floats over the extended melodic range with natural ease, her falsetto and unique vibrato blending perfectly with the music laid out by the rhythm section.



Throughout this record Moncef takes us on a musical journey, sometimes light-hearted, sometimes fiery, but always full of raw, honest emotion. He knows exactly when to be the focal point and when to let his counterpart musicians shine. As always, Bill Stewart provides masterful rhythms with his trademark touch, while Scott Colley custom fits a full, expressive bass sound. Dee Dee Bridgewater is delightful and Michael Brecker is simply... Michael Brecker. Together, this seasoned group creates a beautiful, racy record that promises to move even the most dilettante of jazz fans."