Saturday, December 06, 2003

By Nate Guidry, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Accompanied by his quintet, Dave Holland, the father of all post-modern bassists, executed a masterful lesson in focused, well-crafted music during the band's opening night performance at the Manchester Craftmen's Guild on Thursday.

	Dave Holland Click photo for larger image.

The quintet, which features saxophonist Chris Potter, drummer Nate Smith, trombonist Robin Eubanks and Pittsburgh vibraphonist Steve Nelson, demonstrated that music is more than entertainment: It is art, very serious art.

The group opened the evening with "#1," a tune yet to be titled, which will be featured on its next recording. Eubank's "Full Circle" began a serious of songs composed by each band member, a move that demonstrates the group's cohesiveness and ability to address music in layers. Nelson's "He Who Loves Silence" began quietly, then exploded into an unbridled and unified collective creative vision.

The group then turned to music from its latest recording, "Dave Holland, Extended Play -- Live at Birdland," including "Juggler's Parade," which evolved nicely in layers and episodes.

In fact, the entire program of music seemed to be several suites within a song. One melody replaced another; each player taking the lead. It was a challenging and exciting evening of inventive music.

Holland's quintet, which played again last night, does two more shows today and one tomorrow. Call 412-322-0800 for more information.

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