By: Rudy Lu

There are bands that don’t provide easy enjoyment through pleasant memories & memorable riffs. They punctuate their music with discordance. Examples of this style can range from what are standards from Thelonius Monk and Ornette Coleman, European avant garde to the sounds of industrial metal on the rock side of music.

Ralph and the members of Escalation all have had extensive formal training in both classical and jazz.They have use their virtuosity to bring to listeners, interesting sounds and ideas.

Composition titles such as “Twichild”, “Relaxed Misery”and the latest work ” A Sun That Never Sets” speak for themselves even though there are no lyrics or vocals.

Matt Mitchell will frequently play melodiously something close to a lullaby then jolt the audience awake by playing a discordant chord and changing the time signature. Much like a Tibetan monk will create a beautiful sand painting and when he is done, he will x it out, signifying the lack of permanence,

Ralph’s trumpet playing frequently takes on a mysterious nature, he frequently lectures about playing ideas rather than notes.

John Hebert provided a solid bass for all. It was sound you could feel as well as hear.

Ches Smith worked his magic on his drum kit, frequently switching between brushes, sticks and hands to get the sound he wanted.

The band was indeed giving the audience sound ideas as the music caused one to look inward. Not an easy task to do, but for those who are willing to listen with open ears it is rewarding.

Ralph Alessi & Escalation record for ECM records (ECM.com).

For the remainder of March, the Local will have feature 3 jazz performances :

*3/12- The all woman all star ensemble Artemis

*3/19-ECM Artist- Nik Bartsch

*3/21 Invocation-South American jazz singer Vuyo Sostashe & pianist Chris Pattishall

Go to www.thelocalsaugerties.com for details,