Resonance Ensemble, The – “What Country Is This?” – [Not Two]

Ken Vandermark’s Polish connection remains potent in
this three track release out on Marek Winiarski’s
excellent Not Two imprint. The Resonance Ensemble
is built of ten amazing musicians (including dueling
drummers Tim Daisy and Michael Zerang in opposite
channels), but it is one heavy duty GROUP. Featured
names abound, with some new (to KFJC that is) Poles
installed. Together they move like a train that
doesn’t need tracks. Man, the timbre they get, such a
deep mix of brass and other low end work. Tuba players
stand proud to hear Pere-Ake Homelander’s security
acts! The ensemble serves the super sturdy compositions
of Vandermark perfectly. He can swing so well (with even
a hint of Ethiopian flare at one stop). On “Open Window”
one of the melodies has a sort of juke box pop harmony
that is a little off but sweet/sour. There are moments
where soloist do get to bring the fire, but I listen to
this and think that a LOT of KFJC DJ’s/listeners will dig
the structure song segments… This album unfolds like
a movie, and Vandermark directs the action to dizzying
heights. United this big band stands…

-Thurston Hunger