CD: Duel

Duel
Bertrand Moren – trombone
Jocelyne Moren – tenor horn
Brass Band 13 Etoiles
Conductor: Geo-Pierre Moren
MarcOphone/Editions Marc Reift: CD 7397

I simply love listening to this CD! The band and conductor very much complement the soloists, with sympathetic accompaniment enhancing every nuance. I have been an admirer of Bertrand Moren’s trombone technique for many years - it is simply outstanding and 13 Etoiles continues to be one of the best bands in the world. However, I was unaware of Jocelyne’s remarkable talent until this CD, and was really surprised how well both soloists blend on this album of solos and duets.

Misirlou, arranged by Bertrand, sets the mood for the whole CD. It is full of fun and flamboyancy, and works really well as a duet. Soloists in the Valais within Switzerland are renowned for their ridiculous technique! The title track, Duel, one of Bertrand Moren's own compositions, is full of vibrancy and life, and does not disappoint in this regard.

In the tenor horn solo, Concerto de Adiue, Jocelyne shines, as does the bass trombone at the beginning of the track. The soloist’s expressive playing is extremely impressive on, but it is a shame that there is not more detail about the music in the programme notes. I would have liked to know more.

The horn and trombone sound compliment each other so well in the baroque-influenced Moto Perpetuo, and Bertrand’s performance of The Flying Slide - a piece that has been used in several entertainment contests throughout Europe, is high-octane stuff indeed!

Again, Jocelyne’s performance of Adventure Quest is impressively expressive and, in places, reminiscent of Philip Spark’s Harmony Music for tenor horn. It’s certainly a welcome addition to tenor horn literature.

Who wants to live forever is another of my favourite pieces, so to hear it as a trombone feature appealed greatly. What really impressed me is how the arrangement encompasses both solo voices so well into the band arrangement of this timeless piece, although I found the fading at the end rather odd.

Following The Trombonists Heritage - an extremely difficult trombone trio - the Green Hornet finally ends the CD in the manner in which it began. In other words, full of vibrancy and flair.

This is an entertaining and fun CD to listen to, showing off the Moren family's musical, technical and compositional skills. I can highly recommend this thoroughly enjoyable album.

BRETT BAKER – TROMBONE SOLOIST

For more reviews, interviews and articles, subscribe to BBW Digital. Alternatively, subscribe to the printed magazine delivered by post: £40 (UK); £68 (Europe); £81 (Rest of the World)