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Oblation Vol 2: Dualism

by Antoine Drye

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about

I find it a bit challenging to write about the experience of recording this music, though not due to a lack of thoughts on it, but rather because I have too many thoughts. So, I guess the real potential issue is my editing skills. But, in a sense, this project is an exercise in editing. So, maybe I’ll start there!

Edit #1) DUET RECORDING

The idea of making a duet recording has been on my mind for many, many years. I always saw it as a milestone that would symbolize my own acceptance of all the hard work I’ve put into becoming an improvising musician and the achievement of feeling worthy (and actually being worthy) to be in the company of an artist like David Torkanowsky. I’ve been a longtime fan of his profoundly broad musical abilities since first hearing him with Astral Project, back in 1990. To partner up with a veteran of such a high caliber is an honor, as well as a sign that even though I’m so critical of my playing, this document boldly strengthens the case for my place (however small) in the illustrious history of America’s classical music, often referred to as jazz.

Edit #2) SONG SELECTION

Well, this one is somewhat dictated by the limitations of music packaging, marketing and format. There were a lot of songs that I wanted to do, (and in fact, we recorded songs not presented on this project) but David, being the fine producer and stylist that he is, helped me hone in on my strengths as a player, composers I love and a set list that makes this album a collection of gems that work together effortlessly as a whole listening experience. Some songs were introduced to me, by David and Nicholas, on the day of the recording, which insured focus (from me), just the right amount of nerves and an excitement about discovering new gems to record on the spot! Thanks David!!! Thanks Nick!!!

Edit #3) CONCISE SOLOS & ARRANGEMENTS

The nakedness of such a recording as this leaves no room for one to be gratuitous in their musical approach! Being fully exposed, one is obliged to sift away all extraneous thoughts, devices, notes and ideas, as the duo instrumentation augments them exponentially. Period!

Edit #4) A SINGLE GUEST

This music, black American music (BAM), commonly referred to as jazz, is an art form of apprenticeship. Stories, songs, devices, styles and on and on are all passed down from generation to generation, musician to musician. Like many, I’ve been very fortunate to have had mentors that helped me along the way. One such mentor, though younger than me, is Nicholas Payton. Without getting too deep and writing a full-on homage, I’ll simply say that Nicholas’s influence, mentorship, playing and friendship cannot be overstated. Recording with him amounts to nothing less than a lifetime goal achieved. And as always, he played his butt off!! Thxx Paytone!!!

Edit #5) PRESENTATION

In an effort to be aware of our quickly changing times. We’ve decided to present and offer this project in an artistic and modern format. As many people use streaming and digital downloads as their primary source to listen these days, we opted to forego making physical CDs. So, we decided to package the digital download cards in an envelope with a card decorated with an artwork titled Around & Around, by New York-based artist Erick Johnson. The entire package presentation was beautifully laid out by Alexa Pulitzer, a New Orleans bon vivant, oozing with design genius. Thank you Erick! Thank you Alexa!

As for the music, I feel that it speaks for itself! The songs all have strong, beautiful, memorable melodies, which act as a launching pad for our solos. Alongside a song by my teacher and mentor Ellis Marsalis, Syndrome, and Nicholas Payton’s Backward Step, I wanted to place my 2 compositions in the mix w/James Black’s 3 to affirm their quality as songs with strong melodic character. I think they fit in well. I hope you do too!!!

Songs 8-11 pay homage to New Orleans! Learning directly from the source has been one of the most invaluable pieces of my musical journey. When Wynton Marsalis recommended I go to New Orleans to learn how to play this music, it was an epic departure from the goals I’d set early on.
After attending North Carolina School of the Arts (NCSA) for high school, I’d planned to attend the classical program at Juilliard.

Audible!!!

New Orleans changed my life personally, and of course, musical. For one, it put me in close proximity to musicians like the 2 on this recording. Living in a city with such a rich culture, steeped in humanity and soulfulness, had an affect on me that I dare say helped shape me to my core. The music I absorbed and the friendships I was, and still am, fortunate to have, informed every aspect of this recording. I’m grateful to the Crescent City for its fascinating culture and all of its musical heroes! Thank you NOLA!!

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released December 12, 2019

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Antoine Drye New York, New York

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