SLAMCD2113 Ollie Usiskin & Max Oliver – Usiskin / Oliver Duo

This SLAM release presents the very individual style of music by the UK based duo of drummer Ollie Usiskin and cellist Max Oliver. Combining rhythmic and largely atonal melodic ideas, the duo cites Jack DeJohnette, Frank Zappa and Tony Williams amongst their main influences.

The recordings feature music created during playing sessions by the duo, blending jazz and classical styles, with Oliver’s atonal themes accompanied by Usiskin’s loose and fiery drums. The project has been guided by bassist / producer Jimmy Haslip (The Yellow Jackets, Allan Holdsworth), who describes the playing as “uninhibited, abstract and colourful”. World renowned drummer Peter Erskine quotes “excellent stuff!” Be prepared to be taken on a creative journey where there are no boundaries.”

Max Oliver: electric cello
Ollie Usiskin: drums

“This free-ish improv duo of young London-scene drummer Ollie Ususkin and veteran cellist Max Oliver displays a close empathy, favouring a fiery dialogue, expansive sonic textures and, in spite of its avant-garde sensibilities, has a focussed melodic approach.” – Selwyn Harris, Jazzwise

“The totally improvised set combines rhythmic and largely atonal melodic ideas in a free-flowing dialogue. The aptly titled “Changes of Direction” opens the album, combining Latin, swing, 7/8 rock/funk and more with Oliver initially playing pizzicato, picking up his bow five minutes in. The drums dominate on “The Reaction of Two” and “Stretch” which are more akin to drum solo with cello accompaniment, while the roles are reversed on “Storm Burst”, with its surprisingly abrupt conclusion. Executive producer Jimmy Haslip describes it as “uninhibited, abstract and colourful” and that description is hard to fault.” – Brent Keefe, Drumhead

“The pair are skilled musicians, and together they weave complex and original ideas, creating tracks that are both provoking and engaging…The duo use an array of techniques in their improvisation. Oliver cuts between plucked and bowed electric cello, at times dissonant but always musical, carving out phrases and motifs from the ideas he explores…Usiskin’s playing combines a variety of styles, from the more rock- and jazz-based beats found in Storm Burst, to the entirely free form, such as Stretch and Leading Up To. The use of electric cello provides a brittle and fuzzy tone, which contrasts well with the dry acoustic drums.” – Elliot Marlow-Stevens, Jazz Journal

“Oliver hits the lower register on “Storm Burst” and reaches for the heavens on the 12 minute “Disagree to Agree”. A mix of picking and bowing give a Mingusy feel to the frisky “Leading Up To” while some honking bowing takes place on “Stretch”. Usiskin digs a nice groove on ” Changes of Direction” and “Swing Push”, snaps sharply and crisply on “The Reaction of the Two” with the two getting into a chaotic clutter on “Irritation”.” – George W. Harris, Jazz Weekly

Recorded July 2019 at Mill Hill Music Complex, London
Mastered by Gavin Beckwith at GB Sound Studio, London

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