Termos Sessions, Vol. 2

After Paul Termos' death in 2003 at a relatively young age, the recorded works of this neglected Dutch titan have taken on increasing significance, especially for his small group of admirers who appreciate his versatility, intensity, and improvisational skills. This studio recording — jointly released under the Geestgronden imprimatur — is part of a series issued on the innovative X-OR Records label featuring the saxophonist in varied contexts, and is highly welcomed. Termos is difficult to characterize here: his lengthy improvisations veer outward, yet are firmly based in a post-bop aesthetic. Ideas flow forth rapidly, and Termos focuses on repetition, clipped phrases, and a soaring alto to make his point. For those who have only heard him on larger group recordings, this is a welcome chance to hear him stretch at length. While the opening piece, aptly named "Longplay" (which clocks in at more than 26 minutes), might stretch the patience of some listeners, and while many will prefer the sophisticated arrangements with other horns on his splendid Shakes and Sounds, there is no questioning Termos' imaginative insights. He stretches notes like soft taffy and knows how to pace himself for dramatic effect. Wiek Hijmans is a perfect sparring partner. Not only does he prod and push, spurring the saxophonist to creative heights, but his own improvisations, whether individually or collectively as part of the duo, reveal remarkable insights. Together, Termos and Hijmans create something original: a suitable posthumous memorial to a minor giant whose works are worth exploring.