Steve Lehman Octet - Mise en Abîme

[CraigP]

Steve Lehman is back with the same group featured on Travail, Transformation and Flow. Here's an excerpt from my review:

"The combination of Lehman’s ascetic alto, the intricate yet melodic compositions, and the overtones created, particularly by the vibraphone, creates a signature sound. Vibist Chris Dingman plays a key role, prominent in the mix, his dense ringing overtones a continual presence in both solo and ensemble sections...

There’s always been an element of emotional distance in Lehman’s music, but it serves here to create an air of mystery. The combination of the geometric arrangements and ringing vibes create a feeling of suspended animation...

Mise en Abîme is a confirmation of Steve Lehman’s talents as conceptualizer and composer, synthesizing influences such as Jackie McLean, Anthony Braxton, spectral composer Tristan Murail, and M-Base. There’s no other group out there that sounds like this."

You can read the full review of Mise en Abîme on Improvised.

[AllenLowe]

I do think this is a major work.

[mjazzg]

some previous discussion in this thread

[johnblitweiler]

I do think this is a major work.

Yep.