PUBLIQuartet’s Album Explores Rhythm in American Music

PUBLIQuartet’s latest album delves into the diverse aspects of rhythm found in American music. Unlike many string quartets that adhere to conventional repertoires, PUBLIQuartet opts for a more adventurous path. Their album, Rhythm Nation, showcases a wide range of musical styles, incorporating elements from West African and Venezuelan traditions to modernist complexities and jazz standards.

PUBLIQuartet owes much of its inspiration to the Kronos Quartet, a pioneering group that expanded the boundaries of classical music over five decades ago. Since its founding in 2010, PUBLIQuartet has embraced this exploratory approach. Rhythm Nation opens with ‘Sunjata’s Time’ by Malian composer Fodé Lassana Diabaté, a piece arranged by Kronos arranger Jacob Garchik. This suite tells the story of Sunjata Keita, the founder of the Mali Empire in 1235, and reflects the sounds of the traditional balafon and kora.

The quartet is known for its dynamic performances. In 2016, they improvised a live soundtrack for a presidential debate. Today, they continue to commission new works, such as ‘Cachumbambeando en clave’ by Venezuelan violinist Eddie Venegas, which features a syncopated groove anchored by cellist Hamilton Berry.

The album highlights the group’s versatility, juxtaposing global influences with the work of Pulitzer-winning jazz composer Henry Threadgill. His piece, ‘Sixfivetwo’, presents abstract figures, percussive patterns, and moments of improvisation, including a distinctive solo by violinist Curtis Stewart.

Titled after Janet Jackson’s 1989 album, Rhythm Nation is significant for violinist Janinna Norpoth. While it includes riffs on Jackson’s songs, the album truly shines with compositions like Jlin’s ‘Baobab’. This track begins with a glissando and evolves into a compelling groove infused with the energy of African drumming.

The album’s diverse selection argues that American music thrives on varied rhythms. It includes pieces like Daniel Bernard Roumain’s ‘Hip-hop Etudes’, Duke Ellington’s ‘Come Sunday’, new works by Mazz Swift, and Jeff Scott’s ‘Blues for Buddy’. These contributions highlight PUBLIQuartet’s commitment to innovation and fearless performances.

Through inventive commissioning and performance, PUBLIQuartet redefines the traditional string quartet, ensuring its relevance in contemporary music.