Blacknuss
"Blacknuss," an album by Rahsaan Roland Kirk, is a remarkable testament to Kirk's unique approach to jazz, blending elements of soul, blues, and jazz into a cohesive and enthralling sound. Released in 1972, this album stands out for its ingenious mix of original compositions and reimagined versions of popular songs of the time.
Kirk's virtuosity is on full display here, showcasing his ability to play multiple wind instruments, often simultaneously, which was his signature style. His interpretations of contemporary hits like "Ain't No Sunshine" and "What's Going On" are not mere covers but transformative renditions that infuse the songs with new life and meaning. These tracks are characterized by their soulful arrangements and Kirk's intense, emotive playing.
Original compositions on the album, such as "Blacknuss" and "Old Rugged Cross," demonstrate Kirk's deep connection to the roots of jazz and his ability to innovate within its framework. These pieces blend the spiritual with the secular, and the melodic with the avant-garde, creating a sound that is at once familiar and boundary-pushing.
The supporting musicians contribute significantly to the album's success, providing a solid foundation for Kirk's explorations. The rhythm section, in particular, adds depth and groove to the music, perfectly complementing Kirk's eclectic style.
Overall, "Blacknuss" is an essential listen for anyone interested in the evolution of jazz in the early 1970s. It's a testament to Rahsaan Roland Kirk's genius and his ability to bridge the gap between traditional jazz and the modern sounds of his era. The album is not just a collection of songs; it's a rich tapestry of musical expression that resonates with emotional depth and technical brilliance.
Diptyque 107
The Diptyque 107, priced at $8000 per pair, is a planar magnetic speaker designed with a focus on overcoming the typical lack of deep bass in such speakers. Its creators, inspired by Magnepan, implemented custom-made bipolar magnets and a thin Mylar diaphragm to enhance low-frequency extension and dynamics. The result is a speaker that delivers bass as if a subwoofer were present. Additionally, the midrange and treble are articulate and quick-footed. These speakers were showcased alongside high-end audio equipment like the Audia Flight preamp and monoblocks, and the Aurender A20 music server and streamer.
Zen Sarah Amplifier by Decware
The Zen Sarah Amplifier by Decware, named in honour of the family's daughter, is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and sound engineering. This Class A Single Ended Triode amplifier, designed for the Western Electric WE300B triode, stands out for its purist, hand-built design without circuit boards. It offers various voicing options with various Voltage Regulator tubes and a voicing switch for each channel, affecting imaging and midrange presence. Its design includes features like cathode bias, AC heaters, and exclusive internal components for enhanced sound quality and reliability. This amplifier accommodates a wide range of speaker impedances and includes a built-in preamp stage for greater flexibility and sonic purity.