Jeff Gauthier Goatette
House Of Return
Cryptogramophone
By George W. Harris

Violinist Jeff Gauthier is one of the few artists who is able to successfully mix the freedom of free jazz within the framework of the mainstream. This disc, which has him leading an eclectic quintet, effectively combines bohemian swing with esoteric effects. “Biko’s Blues” and “Dissolution” have Gauthier’s violin evoking a mournful, relaxed and spacious atmosphere, as Nels Cline’s wirey guitar evokes bohemian images. At touch of King Crimson edginess is palpable, notably on the unison lines and Alex Cline’s assertive 5/4 drumming on “Friends of the Animals” and “Satellites and Sideburns.” Lots of effects that flavor, and not distract, ar found on the kinetic percussion and percussive piano on pulsating and dramatic title piece. Also quite effective are the long and lonely legato notes with background guitar effects that draw in and drop out like a cataract on the cataclysmic “Disang” that slowly returns to the calm waters from which it started. Lots of creative juices are flowing on this disc