Conference Call - Live at the Outpost Performance Space (2006)

Conference Call has matured into one of the best working bands of its time. Their fourth opus (and their third recorded live) also features their fourth drummer (Gerry Hemingway), but the quartet's chemistry remains intact. This set can be viewed as a suite full of introspective and contemplative musings bookended by two fiery segments featuring Gebhard Ullmann's acrid soprano and tenor out front. The rather mellow atmosphere gives us an opportunity to hear pianist Michael Jefry Stevens and bassist Joe Fonda stretch out at length and display the scope of their respective talents. The former is versatile but focused while the latter makes his instrument sing with glee. What is most admirable about this band is how efficient they are as a unit. Ullmann and Stevens sound particularly attuned to each other ("Mala Dr'ôle") and the four musicians come together to reach new levels of intensity on "As I Wait." Despite its obvious qualities, the music tends to pale when compared to the band's previous output; the themes are not as memorable as their debut's (Final Answer), for instance. As a result, this one might be best remembered for Ullmann's outstanding soprano excursions and his cohorts' valuable contributions.

Review by Alain Drouot