Gavin Harrison and Antoine Fafard – Chemical Reactions (Harmonic Heresy, 2020)
With bassist Antoine Fafard involved in a recording, you have the guarantee of a full album of excellent progressive fusion. Chemical Reactions is a collaboration between drummer Gavin Harrison (King Crimson, The Pineapple Thief) and UK-based Canadian bassist and composer Antoine Fafard.
Chemical Reactions contains a superb well-constructed set of rhythmic pieces showcasing Harrison’s powerful and diverse drumming style as well as Fafard’s remarkable technique and fantastic bass lines.
On this project, progressive fusion meets chamber strings and a symphonic orchestra. Throughout the album, the cutting edge fusion is intertwined with chamber bowed instruments. It is an uncommon, yet fascinating combination. In addition to drums, Garrison also plays the marimba, which adds yet another unique element to the duo’s sound.
Fusion pioneer, fiddler Jerry Goodman (Mahavishnu Orchestra) adds his unmistakable personal touch to this remarkable album. Goodman has appeared on some of Fafard’s previous recordings.
The line-up includes Gavin Harrison on drums, percussion, piano, and marimba; Antoine Fafard on bass and guitars. Guests: Jerry Goodman on violin; and Janáček Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Anthony Armore.