String Theory 2: Violoncellos and Basses with Support

Canonici produces vivid playing, a wonder to behold. However, these modernist solos with their brutal snap pizzicatos, soaring harmonics, low growling and frenetic tremolos tend to blur together.

Kipple 1.

Except for curiously dull accompaniments to star singers, Goebel / MAK promises distinction.

Walt’s Ratatouille 5.

The opening cut, Bley’s solo rendition of “Touching,” distills the pianist’s art — pedaling that turns notes into sculpture, leaping figures suddenly dropped, looming spaces.