Remi Bolduc, Kenny Werner - Tchat (2003)

Remi Bolduc : Alto sax, Kenny Werner : Piano.

Of the many benefits borne out of the age of information, the existence of Internet chatrooms and e-mail has created unparalleled opportunities for communication. Such has been the experience of the musicians paired on this disc, but their story goes well beyond mere online exchanges.

On the one hand, Kenny Werner is simply one of the boss piano players around on the international jazz scene, and notwithstanding his extensive sideman duties with many of the greats, his own list of credits only confirms the fact that he is one of them himself. On the other hand, alto saxophonist Rémi Bolduc has earned his stripes on the Montreal scene over the last 15 years, and this recording clearly shows his abilities to work with the best. Now in his early forties, he spent some time in the Apple back in the early 90’s, honing his skills with Steve Coleman while hanging out with the likes of Larry Grenadier, Adam Rogers and Ben Monder. About three years ago, Rémi decided to approach the pianist for a lesson, having transcribed and studied his music beforehand, but within 15 minutes, Werner let his visitor know that the best way to learn was to just go for it and play together rather than expect any formal instruction. A nice vote of confidence indeed. Since then, their musical relationship has been cemented onstage (a performance at the Montreal International Jazz Festival), pursued via the Net and now finally documented on disc.

Always fresh and spontaneous in its exchanges, the duo of Rémi Bolduc and Kenny Werner breaks down the usual barriers separating solo and accompanying instruments. Not only are these kindred spirits able enough to re-harmonize tunes at will, but they can also turn on a dime and launch into mellifluous cadenzas that are rhythmically fluid yet never out of bounds. With such prime ingredients, it’s not surprising that these top-notch performers have succeeded in producing more than run-of-the-mill ‘tchats’ but a wide range of engaging musical conversations. Hear them out! ~Marc Chénard