Jeffrey Roden for Sunday night – While I sift through this weekend’s recordings from the BBC 6 Music Festival, from what had to be one of the most intense collection of musicians I’ve heard in a long time – and further evidence the voices of protest are loud and clear – and while we gear up for what is sure to be yet another insane week here and overseas on a purely socio-political level, I thought taking another sonic excursion into the land of serene tranquility from Mr. Roden would be just what the doctor ordered ahead of Monday.
Those of you who heard my last Jeffrey Roden post a few months back (and who hopefully went to his website and picked up a bunch of his albums), know all about his work and just what a critical contribution he is making to the music world. Doing an album, or in his case several albums, devoted to the bass as solo instrument is no easy task, and very few have pulled it off. But Jeffrey has managed to create an entire world around his bass – the elements are working in concert with each other, not trying to detract but to add to the overall sonic experience.
This is very contemplative, transportive music – you could meditate to this – in fact, it would probably be a good idea to hook this up to headphones and zone out for a bit. It’s also highly energizing – there is a certain “hey, I want to share something with you” vibe to these pieces that are, at once deeply personal, while at the same time universal in their nod of camaraderie to the listener. It’s like having a cup of coffee with an old friend.
But don’t take my word for it – hit the play button and see for yourself. It’s not necessary to crank it up – but trust me, it is necessary for you to relax and let this one settle in.
