Free Action

Album review

Wolfgang Dauner's Free Action was one of the most sought after sessions recorded for Saba in the late '60s, though in early 2008 it finally reappeared on CD. This adventurous session of originals by the pianist includes violinist Jean-Luc Ponty, tenor saxophonist/clarinetist Gerd Dudek, cellist Eberhard Weber, bassist Jürgen Karg, and two drummers, Mani Neumeier and Fred Braceful. Although Dauner is the leader, he treats himself as part of the ensemble and doesn't overly dominate the performances. The music alternates between accessible melodies reminiscent of Charles Mingus in spots, though there is often a quick transformation into much looser frameworks where chord structure and rhythm is quickly abandoned. The exotic disguise adds Neumeier on tabla, though Ponty's slashing violin is similar to his avant-garde leaning records as a leader during this period. Dudek's leaps on tenor sax in "Free Action Shot" suggest the influence of Eric Dolphy, while the furious pizzicato of the strings alternates with mournful arco lines. The extended work "My Spanish Disguise" utilizes prepared piano with the strings in a striking performance. Wolfgang Dauner is not as widely known outside Europe as he ought to be, but this striking reissue is a great starting place for those who are unfamiliar with his work.

© Ken Dryden /TiVo