JACK DEJOHNETTE — Pictures (review)

JACK DEJOHNETTE — Pictures album cover Album · 1977 · Avant-Garde Jazz Buy this album from MMA partners
3/5 ·
js
Like a lot of ECM albums from the late 70s, 'Pictures' is mostly low volume, abstract and mysterious; but at the same time it is also more earthy and organic than your typical icy cool reverb-heavy ECM release. Each of the six cuts on here (named 'Picture 1' through 'Picture 6') are unique to themselves, but each reflect the intellectual approach and virtuoso instrumental skills of Jack DeJohnette and John Abercrombie. The first two cuts belong to DeJohnette's abstract yet structured beats that sound like an Elliot Carter algorithmic rhythm matrix, but with a swing feel. On the first cut he also adds quiet dissonant unsettling electronic keyboards that lurk in the background. These two cuts offer some interesting samples for the more adventurous drumnbass producer. 'Picture 3' rounds out side one as Abercrombie joins for a swingin modern post-bop number that may be the highlight of the album.

Side two's opener, 'Picture 4', is an impressionistic pastel reproduction of an avant-fusion workout between Abercrombie's sustained electric guitar and DeJohnette's rambling trap set. Both musicians take a subdued approach and only hint at the sort of fury they are capable of releasing. 'Picture 5' is fractured hill-country roots music presented as chamber art and album closer 'Picture 6' features Satie style piano figures from DeJohnette with soft cymbal rolls for that proto new age sound most often associated with ECM releases. This album isn't for everyone, but if you are a fan of either DeJohnette or Abercrombie you might want to check out this very unique release.
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