Episodes
Wednesday Apr 07, 2010
Ken Aldcroft Convergence Ensemble - Our Hospitality
Wednesday Apr 07, 2010
Wednesday Apr 07, 2010
Our Hospitality (version I) - 12:10
Study In / Directions IV - 7:23
Just a Hint - 7:23
Work Song - 5:23
Study In - 3:51
Dialoguing - 8:57
Cheeky - 12:48
Our Hospitality (version II) - 9:05
Exclaim! review:
Ken Aldcroft’s Convergence Ensemble
Our Hospitality
By Bryon Hayes
The primary vehicle for his musical expression, Ken Aldcroft's Convergence Ensemble have been active in the Toronto, ON jazz scene for some time now. Employing a relatively conventional set of instruments, as far as small jazz combos go, this sextet are by no means ordinary. The skill with which the players wield their sonic weapons achieves extraordinary results, demonstrating a unique synergy. Aldcroft clearly makes it known in the liner notes that the music is a result of minimal direction from him; the players, both individually and collectively, flesh out and rework his compositions. The music serves as his proof. Our Hospitality is a robust blend of group improvisation and pre-written work. The Convergence Ensemble often switch between these two extremes effortlessly mid-song, such as on the two versions of the title track. It's these sudden shifts in direction that showcase the close musical bond that ties the players together. This tight knit group read each others' minds, knowing when to join the fray, when to sit on the sidelines, when to ratchet up the intensity and when to cool the proceedings down. Our Hospitality is a delightful showcase of open-eared collaborators at work.
19.00 + shipping