Although the relationship between
Ornette Coleman and
Theo Jörgensmann might at first blush seem somewhat tenuous, Peter Niklas Wilson argues convincingly in his liner notes that the spirit of
Ornette is central to this music. While the album is dedicated to
Ornette, none of his tunes are played, and the instrumentation bears little resemblance to his. Still, with the focus on melody (as a tool, not an end), the openness of time, the diversity of approaches within a single song, and the willingness to embrace unusual yet logical paths,
Jörgensmann absorbs the legacy of
Ornette in a way that might not at first be obvious. This is a tightly performed set of compositions in which the clarinetist's mastery of his horn leads him to flirt with the edges where free jazz meets hard bop.
Jörgensmann has previously proved his virtuosic skills, and they are here in large doses, but this recording is not about jamming the changes or proving one's virility. This can be complex music, where a lightness of being intersects varied harmonies, and it can also be invigorating fare.
Christopher Dell's vibes color the tonalities with a delicacy of being, though the results will never be mistaken as jazz-lite. At times,
To Ornette - Hybrid Identity might seem atmospheric -- but not for long. Throughout there is a seriousness to it that begs the listener to concentrate closely, as there are layers of mystery to be peeled away. ~ Steven Loewy