in Out Side: Steve Adams, Ken Filiano

9 Winds records, NWCD0156


  1. Unity
  2. Throb
  3. Verticality I
  4. Heartfelt Return
  5. Fliz-Mo-Blues
  6. Verticality II
  7. Haiku #6
  8. Haiku #7
  9. Haiku #13
  10. Enchantment
  11. Haiku #8
  12. Axis
  13. Myself See Three
  14. Tag
  15. Haiku #3
  16. Signal Buoys
    This is not your standard duo record. In fact, before listening to this recording, I would suggest you leave any preconceptions or expectations at the door. The material covered here is diverse and complex. Most of it begs the question "how did they DO that?". Since the compositions are multitracked, the duo fills out as necessary to create more polyphonic sounds. The added tracks are used tastefully which is not common in a small ensemble recording. Often times, layered sounds are added simply to voice melodic parts which cannot be spoken for in the duo setting. In the liner notes, Filiano and Adams state "This time we wanted to involve the studio more, to use it as a canvas rather than just a place to capture a performance." This rings true throughout.

    Multi-reed player Steve Adams achieves technical and artistic continuity on all of the instruments he chooses to play which (as most doublers know) requires a great deal of practice and diligence. His soprano playing is exceptional as exhibited on track 4. You don't get the impression at any point that Adams is "an alto player" or "a tenor player" like you do with many other players. His technique and approach are truly universal.

    Another engaging element of this disc is the organic nature of the compositions included. Most of the melodic material at first seems to be improvised, but after repeated listening, one finds the subtle and lurking form and function of the songs. This masterful weaving of sonic stories creates vast spaces to explore when listening. Notable on this recording are the inclusion of several "haiku" pieces which are shaped around the traditional Japanese poem form. Single ideas, parsed across simple and short songs offer contemplation and retrospection for the listener. Much of this CD seems almost meditative but not passive. These performers have a vision and realize it through the composition, form and function of the music they create. Another highly recommended 9 Winds recording...

    This is CD is available from 9 Winds records, PO Box 10082, Beverly Hills, CA 90213

    Jason DuMars