Rubber Soul Quartet – Something (Losen Records, 2022)
This magnetic ensemble, bound by their ardor for The Beatles, jazz sensibilities, stage presence, and wanderlust, embarks on a transformative odyssey. Rubber Soul Quartet’s second album, Something, dares to reimagine the timeless melodies of The Beatles, weaving a tapestry of sonic adventure that traverses the far reaches of our musical imagination.
With an unwavering reverence for the original compositions, Rubber Soul Quartet employs their boundless creativity to ingeniously reconfigure these cherished tunes, transcending boundaries and combining them with the very essence of American jazz standards.
Embarking on this jazz-infused expedition, Rubber Soul Quartet casts their sonic net wide, unfurling the sails of musical exploration. Their journey commences in the sultry depths of New Orleans, a melting pot of American musical heritage. From there, they navigate the rhythmic currents, making exhilarating stops in diverse corners of the United States, South America, France, and ultimately arriving at the vibrant rhythms of West Africa. Each destination leaves an indelible mark.
At the heart of Rubber Soul Quartet lies a guitar-based soundscape that evokes the essence of The Beatles, yet tantalizingly explores new sonic frontiers.
Rubber Soul Quartet’s mission extends far beyond mere replication. Rather, their purpose lies in embracing the spirit of improvisation, harnessing the power of swing, and delicately dismantling the very foundations of these musical treasures, only to assemble them anew. Each note and every improvisation serves as an homage to the visionary craftsmanship of the Liverpool legends, a testament to the everlasting spirit of musical exploration.
Musicians: Bård Helgerud on electric & acoustic guitars, vocals; Håvard Fossum on tenor & soprano saxophone, flute, clarinet; Andreas Dreier double bass, background vocals; and Torstein Ellingsen on drums & percussion, trumpet.
Buy Something.