Bourne And De Bezenac Spice Up Kämmer Klang’s Anniversary Night
Thursday, October 1, 2009
The first anniversary of this monthly improv summit held earlier this week at Cafe Oto in Dalston featured six sets by six different acts culminating with a free-improv duet performance by pianist Matthew Bourne and alto saxophonist Christophe de Bezenac.
The duo’s inventive, exploratory and defiant musical approach earned rapturous applause. True to the legacy of the likes of Anthony Braxton and Derek Bailey, the pair overcame the traditional constraints of their respective instruments. From viperous hisses to sharp intakes of breath against the elasticity of the reed, de Bezenac exploited his saxophone for all its worth. Among the most notable qualities of the performance was his capacity to bleed the saxophone’s sound into a distinctly visceral human cry, so that he could almost be mistaken for talking in tongues. Moments of humour were also immediately clear, particularly when the pair gurgled in unison with heads arched back like two cockerels ushering in the morning call.
Joined by trumpeter Alex Bonney for the final few moments they only just managed to gain traction through interlocking themes and exchanges before the final note was struck. This is surely a trio worth programming for a full set at some future date. Due notice should also be made to Sarah Cresswell, whose solo performance with percussion and the electronics of Kaija Saariaho’s Rock Garden demonstrated a sensitivity and empathy to the rhythmic contours of the piece. Such nights are vital for the avant-garde scene in Britain, providing space for exposure and experimentation by some of Britain’s most dynamic young musicians.
– Joseph Kassman-Tod