John Heward, who died in November of 2018, distinguished himself both in visual arts and music. Both sides of the artist are represented on this new disc. Photos of one of Heward’s sculptures, which appear on front and back covers, show two intertwined frames surrounded by areas of light and shadow. These striking images are an apt metaphor for the music, which has the musicians intertwine through brighter and darker moments.
This release was recorded in Montreal in September of 2014 by the lineup of musicians who played together at the Guelph Jazz Festival a few days later. Alongside Heward on drums, this concert featured two other elder statesmen of free improvisation, Barre Phillips on bass and Joe McPhee on saxophones, who were joined by Lori Freedman on clarinets and Dana Reason on piano. The release includes five pieces, each simply titled “Improvisation” followed by a number from one to five, listed in order except for “Improvisation 4,” which opens the disc.
It was gesture that drove Heward’s art, whether he was splattering ink onto raw canvas or using brushes to splash sound colours across his drum kit. He leads with subtle touches, a series of flourishes inviting the band to amp it up, or a single thundering clap suggesting a section end. Nothing here is rushed, with each piece slowly building to its climax, making it all the more intoxicating when it finally arrives. These moments of all-out intensity are balanced by solos, duos, and trios. with each band member given the chance to shine. A contemplative atmosphere pervades, encouraging the listener to reflect on Heward’s contributions, while celebrating the ongoing presence of those who continue to carry the torch.
Lawrence Joseph writes about music in Montreal.