Two stringed instruments, three bows, no waiting, could be the motto for this disc. For the dusky, atmospheric sounds that arise from this session are partially created by Frances-Marie Uitti's unique technique. Using two bows, the New Music luminary is able to create so many voices that the overall effect is of an entire string section playing, rather than just the bass and cello.
Not that New York downtowner Mark Dresser is left behind either. Multi-stylistic, with a thorough grounding in both so-called "serious" music as well as jazz, he can get almost as many resonant effects out of his instrument with just bows and fingers as Uitti produces with her double bows.
Uitti has used her approach for years to interpret work by such modern composers as John Cage, Iannis Xenakis and Elliott Carter. But considering that all the music is copyright by the two, it would appear that Dresser's improv chops honed with the likes of Anthony Braxton, Mark Helias and Robert Dick transport her that much further into innovation. All and all, though, the most successful union comes on tracks like "Montebell," when the built up tension and slow release creates uncommon textures.
Obviously, the CD has an overriding appeal for adventurous string fanciers.
Jazz Weekly
