Veer Quartet
New Focus, 2022
8/10
The violinist and composer Sarah Bernstein brings chamber, jazz and improvisation to these 6 very unique pieces, where additional strings from Sana Nagano, Leonor Falcon and Nick Jozwiak are along for the imaginative affair.
“Frames No. 1” starts the listen, and it welcomes dancing strings that aren’t short of warmth and playfulness, as both solo and group dynamics are explored, and “New Cycle Progression” follows with harmonic flow and progressive improvisation in the very cautious demeanor.
“Clay Myth” and “World Warrior” reside in the middle, where the former is quite intimate, stirring even, in its emotive appeal, while the latter illustrates an unparalleled attention to detail amid the frisky string acrobatics. “Hidden” exits the listen, and it showcases strong solo playing but also embraces group harmony, too.
Bernstein has produced 10 albums and many collaborations, and her avant-garde vision and unorthodox approach to music is as exceptional as ever here.
Travels well with: Departure Duo- Immensity Of; NakedEye Ensemble- A Series Of Indecipherable Glyphs