Kaja Draksler Octet - Out for Stars [WEB] (2020)

Boasting an admirable, inventive way of expressing herself, Amsterdam-based Slovenian pianist Kaja Draksler continues the poetry-inspired musical work she has been developing for her singular octet. Out for Stars is the much anticipated follow up to Gledalec (Clean Feed, 2017) and comes sealed with her unique signature sound. The inspiration arose from poems by Robert Frost, whose excerpts are passionately intoned by singers Laura Polence and Bj?rk N?elsd?ttir.

On “Danas, Jucer Sutra”, ethereal voices are set against the solemn chamber wall of cello and violin, creating a sort of ritualistic musing. The conversational exchanges between saxophonist Ada Rave and violinist George Dumitriu is preceded by the former’s occasional popping sounds and trills. At that point, we also have sparse piano raindrops and understated percussive work conferring it textural beauty.

“Acquainted With the Night” advances patiently in its poetic narrative, weaving a refined aesthetic that incorporates trio moments composed of earthy round bass, angular piano, and prismatic drumming. From there, the trio falls into cadences formed from insistent notes and bold chords, bass rambles, and a kinetic percussive flow that reinforces the propagation of energy. The ambience that follows draws some tension and jagged momentum from amidst the complex combinations of things. Down the line, the group hangs in suspension with vocals and clarinets side by side until the solo piano placidity of the final moments.

Providing one of the best moments on the record, “The Last Mowing” is the most propulsive piece and its vigorous energy gets underway as soon as the percussive chops by Onno Govaert are generated. This being said, the climax arrives with the narrow and wide magnitudes of two tenor saxophones in ecstasy. The isotropic consolidation of sounds along with the finely calibrated vocals are a total fun to listen to, and points of comparison with The Fire Orchestra! can be established.

“The Silken Tent” blends spoken word (narrators here are clarinetist/saxophonist Ab Baars and bassist Lennart Heyndels), pure classical singing with the transcription of H?ndel’s Dominus A Dextris Tuis, and free improvised music, whereas “Away!”, featuring a recorded declamation by Frost, adopts an art-pop lyricism and reaches its emotional pinnacle with plaintive, dissonant saxophone wails.

With a gripping pastoral atmosphere at the core, Out for Stars is given depth and breadth by the ensemble’s adroit execution. It’s not for everyday, but when the spirit asks for these moods, it’s an artistic treat.