International Trumpet Guild Journal
‘Globalectic’ is the debut CD effort by The Soundscapes Quintet, an Australian group formedin 2007. This eclectic collection of songs is sumptuous and arousing to the soul and spirit. The CD title implies that the music is global (has worldwide appeal), while also interweaving a variety of genres in an eclectic fashion. The incredible potpourri of sound, emotion and rhythmical grooves are drawn from Classical, Latin, Jazz, Swing, Funk and other world music.
The improvisational skill of these five musicians explodes on every track. The angular harmonic content and strong rhythmic continuity provide an incredible background and structure that allows the creativity and spirit of these artists to flow. Bridge to Hell has a modal Miles feel that trumpeter Clint Allen performs beautifully. The piece alternates between introspective and up-tempo extroversion. Take That! Showcases Clint Allen doing some sweet muted trumpet work in combination with a tight ensemble in a swing-bop style.
Downward Spiral is a marvellous vehicle for Clint Allen’s haunting and heartfelt flugelhorn work. Southside Pocket demonstrates the great ensemble chemistry within this group, navigating a variety of grooves and soundscapes. Spur of the Moment has a familiar Chick Corea “Spain like” vibe in the beginning and then modulates to an emotional mid-section before returning to an up-tempo ensemble coda. There are no liner notes for this project. It would have been nice to see what the group’s concept was for their songs. However it is just as sweet to let the listener interpret the songs as he or she hears the group on this fusion-filled soundscape. This is a CD that will be enjoyed by anyone interested in 21st century eclectic and world ensemble genres.
(Jim Martincic, adjunct instructor of music,Joliet Junior College, Jolier, IL)