The first volume was musically exceptional, but with a more demanding sound structure, more abstract and aimed at seasoned music lovers. This one, without losing any of the intelligence and freedom of the first, will be more accessible to a relatively large and lay audience. We are struck by the control of the discourse, the dynamic momentum, and the entire expressive spectrum of the standards explored, delved into, and overturned here, but never distorted. Despite all the extravagances expressed by the two artists, the melodies are always fully recognisable.
This authentic freedom, where rhythms sometimes seek to scatter, as under the guidance of a child, is initially astonishing. But not at all, everything is thought out (even if it is very spontaneous) and deliberate. We know it, we feel it, especially once the initial surprise has passed. Harmonically, the numerous convolutions never truly stray from the central path while regularly offering beautiful surprises to attentive ears.
Frankly, this volume 2 of the series Dialogue between Rachel Therrien and Albert Marqués reveals to us a unique and inspiring artistic symbiosis. A huge bravo.
