Different Distances

Twenty-three short duets between adventurous saxophonist Joachim Gies and five talented partners focus successfully on a variety of sound collages. Among the more successful pairings are three each with alto saxophonist Ernst-Ludwig Petrovsky and trombonist Thomas Wiedermann. Although there is little time to develop ideas, there are some marvelously outrageous sounds produced. Other performers include vocalists Ute Döring and Alex Nowitz (who doubles on live electronics), and cellist Thomas Böhm-Christl. While the line between composition and improvisation is blurred, and there is a distinctly classical feel to some of the tracks, there are enough surprises to satisfy most aficionados of new music. Gies concentrates on freestyle sound and timbre, and graciously leaves the grandstanding at home.