The debut album Tree Lines by the ensemble Exceptet introduces listeners to a world of eclectic and innovative music. The album opens with "Mouth Full of Ears," a composition that draws inspiration from prog-rock but is uniquely crafted without traditional rock instruments like guitars or keyboards. Instead, violinist Sarah Goldfeather leads the piece with her voice, reminiscent of Annie Haslam’s high register. Backed by an instrumentation rooted in Stravinsky’s Histoire du Soldat, the track blends traditional modalities with unconventional rhythms, creating a brassy contemporary folk sound akin to bands like Bellowhead. Contributions from composers Paul Kerekes and Rome Prize winner Katherine Balch further enrich the album, showcasing quirky and appealing sonic possibilities.
Paul Kerekes’ “figment” stands out as a patchwork of staccato chirps, darting bassoon figures, and chimes. Revolving loosely around a three-note pentatonic motive and a rising whole-note scale, it incorporates elements of minimalism while surprising listeners with its abrupt ending. The music feels energized and fun, both to listen to and perform. Balch’s title piece, "Tree Lines," consists of 13 short movements, each inspired by a different type of old-growth tree. These movements explore abstract musical ideas, with playful eccentricity defining each piece. Connections between the music and the trees may be left to the imagination, as Balch creatively explores each instrument's potential, injecting humor into the compositions.
Katherine Balch’s approach to time and rhythm in "Tree Lines" reflects the timeless nature of ancient trees. Even in pieces with common-time flows, such as "Cedar," irregularities mimic the enduring presence of these natural wonders. Balch acknowledges the challenge of capturing the essence of something so long-lived within the confines of human experience, choosing instead to write something brief yet meaningful. Sarah Goldfeather’s vocals occasionally fold into the textures, intoning numbers and Latin species names, adding layers of mystery and intrigue.
Despite its brevity at just half an hour, Tree Lines promises much for this versatile group. The album, available now from New Focus Recordings, exemplifies Exceptet’s commitment to pushing musical boundaries and exploring new sonic landscapes. Through their unique blend of genres and styles, Exceptet crafts an engaging auditory journey that resonates with listeners seeking fresh and innovative sounds.
