Parker / Guy / Lytton / Schlippenbach / Lovens: 2 x 3 = 5

2x3=5 connotes the merging of two trios: pianist Alexander von Schlippenbach, saxophonist Evan Parker, drummer Paul Lovens and Parker's longtime associates, bassist Barry Guy and drummer Paul Lytton. However the thrust behind this fascinating seventy-seven minute presentation, resides within the artists' abilities to regenerate a hodgepodge of sub-themes into a series of propulsive statements marked by their tireless inventions and boundless energy. Whether it is Parker's heated flurries, Von Schilippenbach's flailing arpeggios, or the rhythm sections' vibrant discourses, the musicians' perpetuate kaleidoscopic tapestries of sound amid cyclic passages sans any logical endpoints. Throughout, the band creates tension along with flourishing dialogue yet occasionally ease back on the throttle via an amalgamation of spiked peaks, minimalist-style motifs, counterbalancing elements, and open-ended exchanges. Taken as a whole, this effort is all about unrestrained momentum, spearheaded by polyrhythmic fury as the instrumentalists' discombobulate all semblances of time and space. No doubt, the musicians' stir our imaginations in convincing fashion, whereas the art of deft expressionism in concert with the celebration of the musical spirit strikes a glistening chord on this most important 2001 release. Vigorously recommended.

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