Two Siberians
Out Of Nowhere
Heads Up

Siberia does not come to the forefront of jazz meccas, but two Russians, Yuri Matveyev (electric guitar) and Artyom Yakushenko (electric violin), have put together a valid attempt to broaden our horizons on what constitutes jazz. Combining a feel like an updated Hot Club of France reminiscent of Grapelli and Reinhardt, yet with a distinct Russian temperament, the Two Siberians perform dramatic and concise originals that while not totally successful, is an intriguing step in the right direction.

Ranging from dramatic gypsy folk tunes ("Outpost Radio" "Lake Baikal" "Vodka Diaries") Yakushenko's robust and flamboyant arpeggios are pushed forward by Matveyev's rapid fire guitar runs. Playing the guitar at times like a balalaika, Matveyev turns almost every song into a danceable stomp. Remember, this is not swing, but high stepping line dancing around the caravan fire.Yuri gives off a couple of solos that would make Al Dimeola blush with envy. "On the Tundra" with it's delicate pizzicato conversation like departing friends, brings moments of elegance and calm. A Django-like improve ("Cagey Bee') ends with an almost Tchaikovskian flurry. Only a Russian could be this dramatic and get away with it!

Guest soloists seem inspired by the foreign environment. Michael Brecker gives off one his best and stimulated solos in years in "Allergic to Gravity". The change of culture is doing him quite a service. Clarinetist Don Byron sounds like he just came from an Orthodox picnic during his cameo performances on "Vodka Diaries/and then, Nika". Both Americans sound cheerfully challenged in their eastern European format.

Most of the songs are in a tight under 4 minute format except for the ECM Metheny influenced "Evidence" and "Searching for Power", which features a delicate choir. Challenging and stimulating, this record is an intriguing direction for jazz. If only they could shorten their names!


--George W. Harris