"The ensemble uses a rich palette of musical ingredients, dissonant chords, elongated recorder sounds, rhythmic percussion and strings and pointed guitar solos" (Robin Arends, Jazz'halo)
Then it is Iman Spaargaren's turn. He is on stage with a band composed of a violinist, guitarist, flautist and percussionist. A band without bass with which Spaargaren can go in all directions, from modern classical, folk, rock and free jazz and he does just that. He ventures into major political themes, as can be deduced from the title of a song called "Individualism versus Collectivism". In addition, music is also discussed that is inspired by personal experiences such as "Through The Woods", a sound of a nature walk around Hilversum.
All (own) compositions are characterized by a careful build-up of tension in which all musical elements are carefully dosed. With limited resources, Spaargaren and his followers manage to produce a full, orchestral sound at times. The ensemble uses a rich palette of musical ingredients, dissonant chords, elongated recorder sounds, rhythmic percussion and strings and pointed guitar solos.
And there is always Spaargaren who is in charge on tenor or clarinet, alternately serving and in the foreground. If you close your eyes, one moment imagines yourself at the table in the Earl's castle and the next moment in an Irish pub or a jazz club. The set offers many surprises and varied themes, but above all striking improvisations without a "squeak or crunch".
Iman Spaargaren: tenorsaxophone, clarinet
Jasper le Clercq: violin
Dodó Kis: recorder, bass recorder
Paul Pallesen: guitar
Yonga Sun: drums
Text and photos © Robin Arends
