Ruminations Upon Ives and Gottschalk

Master bassist/composer John Lindberg has fabricated a captivating set, inspired by forward thinking classical composers Charles Ives and Louis Gottschalk. For instance, Lindberg's piece "Spirit Great, Golden Shine," was composed after the September 11 tragedy, and is cited as a tribute to Gottschalk's "Holy Spirit, Light Divine" hymn. Nonetheless, this quintet pronounces a rather organic vibe, enhanced by the melding of Asian instruments and a semi-conventional modern jazz-based setup. Here, Lindberg steers the pulse via his fervently plucked lines. On "Yatan-Na," multi-reedman Steve Korn employs a bansuri flute to exude an exotic yet rather unpredictable musical climate. As trumpeter Bakida Carrol follows with warm choruses, Lindberg re-engineers the rhythmic structures to coincide with drummer/percussionist Susie Ibarra's regimented brushwork. The ensemble quietly and rather seamlessly shifts gears, to include interesting harmonic endeavors complete with world music-like grooves. Many of these works are simply fascinating, yet one quick listen may not divulge the true benefits. It all flows rather naturally, whether the band engages in odd-metered rhythmic escapades or weaving sound sculptures.