JC Renault and Didier Laloy - Hors-piste
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Jean-Christophe Renault and Didier Laloy
Hors-piste
Homerecords.be (www.homerecords.be)
Jean-Christophe Renault's music defies easy categorization. The composer and pianist straddles the boundaries between classical, folk, and minimalism to create works that combine the textures of French impressionism (Erik Satie is a notable influence), the atmospherics of post-rock ensembles like Rachel's, and the creative use of repetition characterized by Harold Budd. Despite his impressionist bent, he shares with the Romantics a restless exploration of folk musical forms.
For Laloy in particular, these sessions undoubtedly presented unique challenges, since the tightly arranged pieces allow less room for improvisation than in much of his other work. Laloy's distinct musical personality nonetheless shows through, as on "Ziguinchor," where his taut, rhythmically astute accompaniment and dry musical tone provides an interesting contrast to Renault's more lush style of playing. The effective use of these contrasting styles can also be found on "E.F.G.D." which begins in an almost dirge-like fashion, only to lead into an hypnotically syncopated main theme. Although a wistful melancholic tone pervades many of these pieces, others provide moments of pure joy, as in the aforementioned "Ziguinchor" and the sun-drenched "Les Petits Doights Bulgares."
As with his previous work, one sometimes wishes that Renault would explore more dissonances in his work, rather than relying so singularly on the beautiful melodies that he is apparently able to draw from the air. Nonetheless, Hors-piste presents a unique collaboration between two fascinating players, and a rich sonic experience for the listener. - Michael Duke
CD available from cdRoots
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