Resistance

In 2003, the Rova Saxophone Quartet celebrated its 25th anniversary with a long tour that led the group, among other places, to Victoriaville for the FIMAV festival. For the occasion, the Victo label released a new studio album of the group, Resistance (its third for this label). Consisting of two new pieces and an older improvisation, it adds to the group's constantly interesting discography without redefining any parameters — which is just fine, because Rova's music is rarely predictable anyway. The title track was produced in 1997 for the ORF Kunstradio. While they play, all four saxophonists trigger prerecorded tapes of their own playing, virtually multiplying the ranks of improvisers. The piece is full of surprises. "The Drift" and "The M'ad-Din" were recorded in November 2002. Penned by Rova member Larry Ochs, "The Drift" is a witty number dipped in past experiences. Reminiscences of R&B and swing-era jazz creep in through solo voices before being stolen and disarticulated by the group in a very entertaining and ear-pleasing fashion. "The M'ad-Din" is a composition from 1998 by Wadada Leo Smith (with whom Ochs played in What We Live, among other occasions). More contemplative, even solemn at times, it calls for quarter tones, various extended techniques, and an ear highly trained to unusual harmonies. Repeated listens reveal uncanny beauty hidden within the complex contrapuntal voices. ~ François Couture, Rovi