NuMBq

MAHAKALA MUSIC 086 (RELEASED FEBRUARY 24, 2025)

Conceived and directed by bassist Michael Bisio, NuMBq features a group of master improvisors that achieve a unique balance between music reminiscent of the Third Stream and New Thing movements in jazz. It’s no mystery that the Third Stream influence comes from violist Melanie Dyer and English horn player Marianne Osiel (both new to me) and the New Thing feel is a result of jazz stalwarts drummer Jay Rosen and bassist Michael Bisio. The mystery for me is what does NuMBq mean? So, let me offer my take. N is for nimble. Members of the ensemble are as nimble as they can be working through eight delicate to complex improvisations. They seamlessly shift emphasis from one player to another often breaking up into smaller units. Dyer and Osiel are particularly adept at the art of conversing, intertwining and unwinding. U is for unusual. I would be hard pressed to think of another recording that features a quartet of viola, English horn, bass and drums. The unique combination gives the recording a chamber-like feel but with a definite edge. M is for moods. The quartet achieves a variety of moods throughout the session. While “Elegy For MG” and “Medicaid Melancholy” alternate between ensemble and solo sections, tunes such as “Broken Waltz,” AC 2. ONU,” and “Improv #1091” are pure collective improvisations, some based on Ornette Coleman-sounding motifs. There is also a wonderfully moving bass and viola duo on “Going Home/Amazing Grace.” B is for bass. Whether he is bowing, playing pizzicato or strumming, Bisio’s bass is constantly building a strong foundation that inspires other members of the quartet to shift, sway, swirl and sweep. I would remiss not to mention Jay Rosen’s contributions to this session. His use of the traditional drum kit, shakers, bells and other devices adds color and spark to every tune, much like he did with Trio-X. Q is for quintessential. Without a doubt, this session represents the most perfect example of a modern-day approach to Third Stream/New Thing music.

BOTTOM LINE: The viola sweeps and swoops. The English horn croons and caresses. The bass pushes and pulses. The drums underscore and undulate. It all comes together on NuMBq, a group and recording that combines the delicacies of Third Stream music with the fire and passion of the New Thing.