The second coming of Oregon? Perhaps. Argentina's Uqbar were around from 1995 to 2001, and in that time created some stirring and beautiful chamber music that incorporated elements of jazz, folk, and world styles. Featuring two classical guitarists, clarinet, flute, cello, violin, and trombone, Uqbar weaved a gentle yet complex myriad of melodies that tickle the mind as well as soothe the soul.
A song like "Rojo de Espana" , at over eight minutes long, features a haunting backdrop woven by soaring clarinet and moody cello, over which intricate classical guitar and flute lines interject. In place of percussion, the two guitarists do a fine job of tapping on the body of their instruments, in true flamenco style. Like the previously mentioned Oregon, Uqbar were quite adept at putting together complex chamber music that managed to also come across as quite elegant. For instance, "Arkangel" with its emotional clarinet passages and busy dual guitar work, is simply a lovely piece. In stark contrast is "Seireme", a more bombastic piece punctuated by trombone and lead flute, that is perhaps the most upbeat track in the set. Here Uqbar really sound like a little orchestra, as this piece is very symphonic in nature.
The skills of the musicians are quite impressive, especially considering that by no means is this a "chops fest", but a fascinating collection of wonderful and intricately put together melodic statements. It's one of those rare recordings that you can listen to over and over and get something new out of each time. File this with your classic collection of Oregon recordings and you will have some of the best jazz/world fusion music around. Uqbar is a lost gem, that, thanks to the folks at Viajero Inmovil, can now be heard.
Track Listing
1) Pylonisa (6:12)
2) Cesare (5:37)
3) Rojo de Espana (8:08)
4) Fauno con Trompetas (7:24)
5) Arkangel (6:07)
6) Seireme (5:00)
7) Lucila Caesar (6:43)
8) Tigre Mimbre (5:49)
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