Jean Derome's "Canot-camping, expédition 4" is an avant-garde and free jazz masterpiece released on January 1, 2002, under the Ambiances Magnétiques label. Clocking in at just under an hour and ten minutes, this album is a unique and immersive experience that blends the spontaneity of free jazz with the structured narrative of a canoe-camping expedition.
Derome, a renowned Canadian multi-instrumentalist and composer, crafts a sonic journey that mirrors the ebb and flow of nature and human interaction. The album is divided into 26 tracks, each depicting a different scene or moment from the expedition, from the initial preparations and bus rides to the serene lake scenes and the inevitable return journey.
The music is as varied as the experiences it describes, ranging from the playful and whimsical ("Partie de cartes," "Partie de dominos") to the introspective and atmospheric ("Sous-bois," "Constellations"). Derome's mastery of his instruments, combined with his keen sense of storytelling, creates a vivid soundscape that is both engaging and thought-provoking.
"Canot-camping, expédition 4" is not just an album; it's an exploration of sound and nature, a testament to Jean Derome's creativity and musical prowess. Whether you're a fan of avant-garde jazz or simply looking for something fresh and exciting, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.