Ingebrigt Håker Flaten (Exit) Knarr

While follicly challenged himself Norwegian bassist Ingebrigt Håker Flaten and his six-member (Exit) Knarr band figuratively let their hair down in this relaxed but energetic live gig. Arranged for maximum rhythmic impetus with double bass pulsations joined by appropriate breaks from fellow Norwegian drummer Olaf Olsen, plenty of reflective space is available for the contribution of saxophonists Amalie Dahl (baritone and alto) from Demark and Karl Hjalmar Nyberg (tenor saxophone and electronics) from Sweden, Polish pianist Marta Warelis and American guitarist Jonathan F. Horne.

Not a blowing session per se Fly is instead an recasting of four of Håker Flaten’s composition in extended form from earlier band versions. Each exposes a distinctive variant. “Austin Birds” for instance mixes processed aviary field recordings with a contrapuntal challenge for the two saxophonist as one advances the slurry theme horizontally, while the other favors a thin triple tongued tone. A multiphonic crescendo splinters into unattached peeps until percussive pianism and a shattering drum rasp pushes the narrative to its end.

While Horne’s flanges-out-of-freeform playing, which on its own encompasses note-shredding and metallic buzz is featured sparingly, each rhythm instrument contributes to a swing feel. Reed vamps and keyboard explorations never dominate, especially when double bass stops confirm throughgoing focus.

The title track is a notable example of this. Built on a riff resembling the Blues Magoo’s proto-punk “(We Ain’t Got) Nothin’ Yet” and subtly pivoting to angular interludes that briefly quote Thelonious Monk-like riffs, the repetitive bass groove is frequently pierced by Dolpyesque alto saxophone bites, baritone sax grunts, dual reed vamps and Warelis’ keyboard interjections which pound even when introducing a countermelody. Eventually as low-pitched instruments emphasize a descending line the pianist sprinkles variations to lighten and define the theme.

Each of these diversions is wedged so subtly into the always pulsating performances that the audience probably doesn’t realize how sophisticated the sounds they’re appreciating. Exhilarating while being exploratory, Fly shows sounds that captivate without losing nuance.

–Ken Waxman

Track Listing: 1. Fly 2. Breezy 3. Austin Birds 4. Choas Pad

Personnel: Amalie Dahl (alto and baritone saxophones); Karl Hjalmar Nyberg (tenor saxophone and electronics); Marta Warelis (piano); Jonathan F. Horne (guitar); Ingebrigt Håker Flaten (bass) and Olaf Olsen (drums)