On From The Source, bassist Joe Fonda has constructed an elaborate multi-disciplinary program that meshes tap dance, otherworldly vocals acrobats, esoteric poetry, and freedom swing. Complemented by reed master, Anthony Braxton, tap dancer, Brenda Buffalino, body healer/vocalist, Vickie Dodd, trumpeter Herb Robertson, and percussionist Grisha Alexiev, Fonda’s ambitious efforts are successfully realized by Fonda’s spacious, melodically rich compositions and the ensemble’s amazing empathy. The hypnotic “High Tech #1,” which Braxton’s haunting flute, and Buffalino’s twinkling taps glide gently above Fonda’s infectious ostinato figure affords the easiest listening experience. For header, sonic explorations, “An Internal Look” is this program’s taster’s choice. Intriguing, soothing, and invigorating, Fonda’s From The Source is one of the most hauntingly beautiful arguments for free jazz to come along in a long while.
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