ReleasesWindfall

Another duet. But this one works. The tracks are all short so there is little time for too much repetition and Baars and Kneer create some very nice conversations. In some cases I actually wanted the tunes go on a bit more. I guess that proves the old saying about leaving the audience wanting more. What also makes this record work is that Baars plays a variety of instruments so the tone and textures keep changing. This especially the case with the japanese flutes. The contrast between the flutes and bass is very nice, especially when kneers uses the bow, as on “bird talk”, where kneer creates some really interesting sounds.
Kneer actually is quite creative in getting a whole range of sounds from the bass. One would normally think of a horn-bass duo as equals but with the bass following the horn. Here there is real equality and Kneer leads as much as Baars.
On a more general note, Baars’ style is somewhat pointilistic. He likes short jabs, with occasional longer phrases, while Kneer produces all kinds of sounds from the bass. Every once in a while I wasn’t sure who was playing. While this record works, I must admit that on a personal level I didn’t always care for Baars’ playing, especially on tenor. Though I always enjoyed Kneer’s bass playing. But that personal reaction should not take away from a positive critical assessment. People who like this kind of playing will certainly like this cd.