An early pioneer of “world music,” Henri Texier takes his double bass to uncharted territory on Varech, blending avant-garde jazz with Celtic, African, Indian, and Middle Eastern elements for a singular statement that’s as funky as it is groundbreaking. Texier cut his teeth playing with world jazz legend Don Cherry in the 60’s and has also worked with greats Donald Byrd, Bud Powell, Dexter Gordon and Jef Gilson. The bass is obviously a major focus here, but Texier’s voice is also spectacular. “Les “Là-bas,” “L’Elephant,” and “Terre-basse” are highlights, but a full listen is recommended.
Recommended – Full Listen
A1 Les “Là-Bas”
A2 Quand Le Blues S’en Ira
A3 L’éléphant
A4 Terre-Basse
B1 Varech
B2 Mr Donald Cerise
B3 Angèle
B4 L’écluse
B5 L’ultime Danse
Composed By – Henri Texier (tracks: A1, A3 to B5), Jean Sauvielle (tracks: A2)
Contrabass, Oud, Flute, Bombarde, Bass [Fender], Percussion – Henri Texier
Engineer – Dominique Samarcq, Gilles Roussel
Photography By – Jean-Jacques Pussiau
Producer – Jean-Marie Salhani