Best of 2017 #19: Sam Bardfeld – “The Great Enthusiasms” (BJU Records)

It’s truly amazing how violinist Sam Bardfeld is able to thread the needle at the point where avant-garde, modern jazz and chamber come together.  The nature of the lyricism of The Great Enthusiasms is one of curious melodies, volatile bursts of intensity, and a sardonic wit.  The trio of Bardfeld, pianist Kris Davis and drummer Michael Sarin somehow roll out this concoction of tones and influences in a way that is remarkably embraceable.  If one were to create a soundtrack for a printed collection of The Far Side comic strips, this is likely how it would sound.

Music from NYC.

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