François Houle, the renowned Canadian clarinetist and composer, presents his latest free jazz album, "Fatrasies," set to release on May 10, 2024, under the label Les Disques VICTO. This captivating collection of six tracks showcases Houle's virtuosic playing and innovative compositional approach, blending medieval French poetry with contemporary improvisational techniques.
"Fatrasies" draws inspiration from various medieval texts and themes, as evidenced by the track titles like "Tart ara mon cueur" and "Revenons à nos moutons," which are derived from works by Molinet and Maître Pierre Pathelin, respectively. Houle masterfully weaves these historical references into a tapestry of free jazz, creating a unique and engaging listening experience.
The album's duration of 57 minutes allows for ample exploration of each piece, with Houle's clarinet taking center stage, accompanied by a stellar ensemble of musicians. The tracks range from the hauntingly beautiful "Guillemette" to the lively and rhythmic "La petite bête," demonstrating Houle's versatility and range as both a player and a composer.
Free jazz enthusiasts and fans of innovative woodwind performances will find much to appreciate in "Fatrasies." François Houle's ability to merge historical influences with modern improvisational techniques results in an album that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply satisfying on an emotional level.
Vinylscout