Review of Close Embrace of the Earth
(Abzu) in Cadence
Magazine 30/1, January 2004 p. 48.
Two woodwind players and a violinist compose the reaching, probing trio
of Michalowski/ Khoury/Bukowski on (Close Embrace of the Earth). Moody
clarinet, explosive violin, and high-pitched saxophone sounds send the
initial message signifying the intensity built into this music, which
develops further into an open forum for free interaction of challenging
dimensions. Wide diversity marks the tonal range pouring from these
musicians' instruments, giving the program a deep bottom, robust
midrange, and exhilarating high end. Bukowski and Michalowski both play
alto/bass clarinets and baritone saxophone in addition to several other
reed varieties, and although stage positioning is not noted, one can
surmise the specific source using the location depicted on the liner
photo-graph. They encompass Khoury in a ring of aural warmth, and
together the three artists weave complicated threads into an integrated
pattern marked by passion and compassion.
The recording is an unstructured collection gleaned from three live
performances in Ann Arbor. Each selection is a sculptured work denoting
a high degree of communication among the three free spirits. The
overriding emotion, however, leans toward the sullen side. A sense of
melancholy pervades the songs, even when the musicians reach pinnacles
of excitement. Khoury's strings sing out with frenzied energy while
Michalowski and Bukowski explore opposite ends of the sound spectrum,
yet the music retains its deep, disconsolate persona. Despite this, the
trio is able to instill an aura of calm through these brooding
conversations. Michalowski, Khoury, and Bukowski speak a refined
language where inner feelings dictate the direction they collectively
traverse. They carry one along on this extended mind journey to
coalesce all traveling souls into their contemplative circle.
Frank Rubolino