| 1 | Funny Bones Jones | 4:41 |
| 2 | Amissirac | 6:57 |
| 3 | Sorcerer's Dance | 5:07 |
| 4 | Solo No. 1 | 2:27 |
| 5 | Heart Of Winter | 6:55 |
| 6 | Aftermath | 11:56 |
| 7 | Remind Me | 8:32 |
| 8 | Dialogue | 6:38 |
| 9 | Solo No. 2 | 1:49 |
Marc Mommaas and long-time collaborator Nikolaj Hess deliver a masterful exploration of intimacy and structure on their 2006 Sunnyside Records release, Balance. This tenor saxophone and piano duo represents a decade-long vision for Mommaas, who sought the perfect moment to record in a format that offers "dense harmony" and the space for tonal colors to truly resonate.
The album showcases Mommaas’ incredible technical range—described as shifting effortlessly between "foghorn and banshee"—paired with Hess’ lightning-quick harmonic runs. Built on complex mixed meters and poly-harmonic principles, the compositions forgo a rhythm section to allow for a deeper, more intuitive connection between the two performers. From the atmospheric, rain-soaked textures of "Aftermath" to the gritty, nimble execution of "Solo No. 1," Balance is a compelling landscape of modern improvisational jazz.
Personnel:
- Marc Mommaas: Tenor Saxophone
- Nikolaj Hess: Piano
Track Listing:
- Funny Bones Jones
- Amissirac
- Sorcerer's Dance
- Solo No. 1
- Heart of Winter
- Aftermath
- Remind Me
- Dialogue
- Solo No. 2
