Untitled Document
Melosolex
France
Denis Charolles – dr, hrn, trb, perc, voc, g
Fred Gastard – b, s sax, ten sax, effects, synth
Vincent Peirani – acc
Those who enjoyed La Campagnie des Musiques à Ouïr a day before, will not find it difficult to decide to take in Melosolex. This trio features two musicians from the said French music project, although the music of both groups is different, proving the musicians' urge to seek out adventure.
Multi-instrumentalists Denis Charolle and Frederic Gastard have invited accordion player Vincent Peirani, who is well-known on the French jazz scene, to their new project. Their eponymous first album, released this year, raised many discussions. What should this music be called? Jazz acrobatics? Circus? Manifesto on breaking the limits?
Why is it that when introducing Melosolex, other festivals often use the phrase “French madness”. Well, the group playfully demonstrates total disregard of the established boundaries of music genres. One second it seems you hear jazz, the next—rock, flamenco, African or Balkan folklore.
Critics aptly note that Melosolex have no fear or complexes. It is the fear of being “wacky” that often impedes the creative urge, but this is not the case with this trio. Apart from their original compositions, their first album includes melodies from Dmitrij Shostakovich and rock icons, Deep Purple. They are, of course, performed in such a way that their original composers would not necessarily recognize their pieces.
Musicians say that their programme is vivacious, full of rock’n’roll energy, and dedicated to everyone who understands humour. Once you hear the vocals and percussion play of Charolles, the saxophone of Gastard, and the fury contributed by Peirani accordion, you will have no doubts as to the musicians’ intentions. Imagine jazz legend John Coltrane was transported to 2009, and jammed with the rock group Van Halen; now you can begin to understand Melosolex. They offer a feast of musical surprises which should be relished without inhibition.
