The intimacy of FlynnSpace lends itself to revealing the detail of a musical performance which benefited The David Binney Quartet tremendously the evening of September 26th. It was impossible not to notice how the foursome challenges itself when they play.
That said, they barely avoid becoming predictable despite the formidable technical prowess within the group. The collective variations on both melodic and rhythmic themes generated tangible momentum as the quartet began. Playing as quietly as possible served well "Here Is All the Love I Have" and indicated the high level of their internal discipline. Binney and co. utilized as few notes as possible on "Bastion of Sanity," which turned into another admirable exhibit of self-restraint. Nevertheless, there was a growing sense, as this first set progressed, that The David Binney Quartet wasn’t going to let themselves loose and sure enough they did not, despite the self-consciously rapid closing number led by the saxophonist leader.
Two individuals in this band, however, made for a memorable performance precisely because they steadfastly avoid a comfort zone. Pianist Craig Taborn was a source of constant invention, reminding that the piano is a percussion instrument without ever letting go the melody. He takes a decidedly unconventional approach to his instrument, which at one early juncture, had him plucking strings inside his instrument. His smiling countenance found its balance, literally and figuratively, on the other side of the stage: in his own focused concentration, drummer Brian Blade, provided symmetry in sound as well as stage alignment by consistently furthering the evolution of an improvisation with carefully-sculpted drum work. More than once the intricacy of his playing suggested melodic motifs.
With FlynnSpace’s normally open sitelines reduced by the quasi-festival seating, it was as relatively difficult to observe as it was to move through the venue this Saturday night. A more relaxed plan of the customary placement of tables and chairs would’ve lent a a more informal atmosphere that might’ve allowed The David Binney Quartet to rediscover the importance of the verb in the phrase "play music."
