Bill McBirnie’s Extreme Flute label, in my opinion, is one of the most significant “under the radar” imprints releasing music today. His latest release Forever with frequent creative partner Bruce Jones illustrates the possibilities of incorporating world music influences, traditional classical instrumentation, and pop song structures. This is not new ground. Earlier artists have expanded listener’s awareness about what’s possible rather than limiting themselves to business as usual. I believe, however, every talented artist who dares to challenge our preconceived notions about music helps us see a little more of the distant horizon than before.
URL: http://www.extremeflute.com/
Bouncing skillful yet accessible playing off the framework of influences outside the mainstream takes considerable gifts. “Criole Blessing (Saravá Criola)”, however, impresses me with how effortless they make the task sound. McBirnie’s flute playing is an undeniable musical force covering every mile of melodic possibility. Jones, however, provides crucial instrumental support on drums, guitar, and synthesizer here and elsewhere. Any artistically successful album has an unified sound and Forever is no exception.
It is never the Bill McBirnie Show alone. The album’s second track “Song for Svetlana (Um Choro Para Svetlana)” has several strong suits and one are the assorted exchanges between McBirnie’s flute and Jones’ guitar. None of their songs, however, are written as instrumental showcases alone. It is one of the more intense performances for me. “It’s the Time (Saber Se Amar)” continues the string of winning performances. There is a tendency during the second half of the release to musically stretch his wings without ever sailing into self-indulgence. Forever, however, benefits from a solid rhythm section performance here and elsewhere that tethers the material to a tight structure.
“Forever (Eternamente)” upended my expectations some. I expected languid and introspective terrain but, instead, there’s a light playful quality. It is not a disappointment. The patient mid-tempo development of the arrangement isn’t predictable and both newcomers and longtime listeners will find themselves waiting to hear what comes next. “Dreams and Light (Canta Canção)” has a gentle freewheeling mood. This doesn’t mean losing the plot and meandering for almost five minutes but, instead, allowing his muse to take him where it will. It is a rewarding journey and ends Forever in a low-key ambitious way. Don’t let the quiet volume fool you. McBirnie and Jones don’t want to entertain you alone, they want to reach deep within. This song accomplishes that.
APPLE MUSIC: https://music.apple.com/us/album/forever-feat-bruce-jones/1582260375?i=1582260383
The extra bonus track “Full Moon Blue Wolf” does as well. The non-English vocal doesn’t prevent anyone from enjoying the song. Jones has such an expressive voice that it won’t matter for many and McBirnie’s flute often doubling the vocal melody is something they’ve seldom explored until here. It isn’t a failed experiment but, I believe, is a possible doorway towards the duo’s musical future. Forever reinforces Extreme Flute’s status as one of the best niche imprints active today and a worthwhile addition for any serious music fan. Banish all worries and considerations about genre aside and enjoy what McBirnie and Jones can do.
Chadwick Easton