Short Tales

• Artist: Frank Lowe
• Rating:
• Release Date: 2000
• Genre: Jazz

Review

This series of short duets reveals a different side of free jazz icon and tenor saxophonist Frank Lowe, who joins the relatively obscure French bassist Bernard Santacruz. Except for the occasional abstract passages, the music is quite accessible, beautiful, and engaging. The two musicians share compositional duties and perform some fine tunes by the likes of Don Cherry, Dollar Brand, Sun Ra, and Denis Charles. Together, they create a coherent and well-conceptualized program, where their shared love for infectious, often deeply rhythmical melodies prevails. Surprisingly, some of the tunes would probably appeal to children. Lowe and Santacruz are remarkably attuned to each other and never let their egos get in the way, narrating those Tales in a rather humble way. The saxophonist is in great form and particularly expressive throughout. His phrasing exquisitely complements the style of Santacruz, a bassist who usually strives to voice the lyricism of his instrument rather than rely exclusively on its timekeeping nature. This is an extraordinary little session off the beaten path that exudes poetry and generosity -- a little gem well worth checking out. ~ Alain Drouot, All Music Guide

Tracks

Track Title	Composers	Performers	Time
Jabulani		Bernard Santacruz, Frank Lowe	(3:47)
Gepeto		Bernard Santacruz, Frank Lowe	(3:03)
Walk in Matosinhos		Frank Lowe, Bernard Santacruz	(4:33)
Alarm		Bernard Santacruz, Frank Lowe	(5:55)
Mopti	Don Cherry	Bernard Santacruz, Frank Lowe	(3:11)
Zoom Tipski	Frank Lowe	Bernard Santacruz, Frank Lowe	(3:54)
Asian Bird		Bernard Santacruz, Frank Lowe	(4:54)
Fuschia Norval	Frank Lowe	Bernard Santacruz, Frank Lowe	(3:38)
Thinking of You	Frank Lowe	Bernard Santacruz, Frank Lowe	(3:06)
Fight Song Nº 2		Frank Lowe, Bernard Santacruz	(3:46)
Nothing But Love	Frank Lowe	Frank Lowe, Bernard Santacruz	(:56)
43rd West		Bernard Santacruz, Frank Lowe	(2:52)
Watusi Egyptian March	Sun Radio Ibiza	Bernard Santacruz, Frank Lowe	(4:12)
Bass Space	Denis Charles	Bernard Santacruz, Frank Lowe	(2:08)

Credits

Gérard De Haro (Engineer), Boris Darley (Editing), Marie Cosenza (Photography)