Sqwonk Black

With their second album, Black, [Sqwonk] have proven that this reputation is well-deserved. Jeff Anderle and Jon Russell make use of the full range of technical and expressive opportunities afforded by the bass clarinet, and the result pushes the envelope of what bass clarinet music can be.…Anderle and Russell’s mastery of their instruments is evident in everything from the frantic and technical KNEE GAS (ON) to the mournful, lyrical lines of Sojourn of the Face. At times the ensemble is producing so many colors that it is easy to forget that there are only two performers, and at other times the blend is so effective that it is difficult to believe there could be more than one. The duo’s repertoire consistently demands perfect production of complicated interwoven lines, acrobatic leaps, and sensitive lyricism in difficult registers; suffice it to say that Anderle and Russell rise to meet the challenge in every instance.…Black is an excellent product of a fast rising star….It deserves a place in the collection of any bass clarinet enthusiast or fan of the styles from which Sqwonk draws influence.