By Paul Acquaro
Is there reason to buy new vinyl? Is there any reason not to just stream an album, and never to feel that physical artifact, born from the blood, sweat, and tears of so many, working so hard, to bring to life?
I think you know my answer.
Holding guitarist Jeff Parker and Cornetist Rob Mazurek’s vinyl only Some Jellyfish Live Forever, I have the gatefold open in my hands and am reading Alain Drouot’s no-nonsense liner notes. Referencing the duo’s associations through the years in several Chicago based groups and then delving into the subject of immortal jellyfish, it is pure joy.
I had first heard about this recording last year from Mazurek and had been looking forward to it since. And, I’m not disappointed. Mazurek is all acoustic, leaving behind the electronics that have permeated a significant body of his work, and while Parker’s guitar is fed through various effects, his sound and approach never overpower. The two blend nicely, creating a series of soundscapes in which the guitar lays the ground work while Mazurek delivers lovely austere melodies.
What a pleasure to stop and listen to this album – the sound so organic and textural. It moves slowly, slyly, without hurry. The duo’s music still tingles in my ear as the record runs out and the non-automatic tone arm of my record player delivers a pop as sure as a breath. As I put down the big white album jacket, after reading the liner notes and checking out the photos, a small download card tumbles out. I look at it – is it worth it?
Available at Downtown Music Gallery.
