One Leg Too Short

Press, 29 July 1989, Page 8

One Leg Too Short

One Leg Too Short, presented by the Arts Centre of Christchurch at the Great Hall, July 28, 1.10 p.m. Reviewed by Philip Norman. One Leg Too Short is an eight-legged contemporary jazz ensemble. These are distributed in pairs among Frances Krsinich (saxophone), John Kennedy (drums and percussion), Michael Kime (double bass) and Greg Malcolm-Boelee (guitar). Why, then, One Leg Too Short? Lateral thinking is required to unravel the answer. The name, according to Krsinich, is taken from the title of an early instrumental composed by the group. The music of this, to the group’s ears at least, sounded lop-sided, wobbling as though — "one leg was too short.” Band names often encapsulate the music or philosophy of the members. In this case, knowledge of the derivation suggests a sound that is both whims’cal and arhythmic. Yesterday’s recital confirmed this. It also demonstrated a sound that is brimming with zest and born of a pleasing degree of musical invention.

Ail of the items were ostinato based. Many featured textures built from relatively complex cross-rhythms and contrapuntal interplay. Tonal modulations from particularly the guitar arid the bass added spice to the sound. Imaginative use of a battery of cymbals and hand-held percussion ensured timbres remained fresh. It was also pleasing to note that, though ample provision for extemporisation was made, most of the items were tightly structured. If occasionally the music appeared to be without aim, it was more a problem of thematic wilt than architectural flaw. One Leg Too Short is a group of young Christchurch-based musicians. The produce is raw but rich with promise. At present, the verbal and physical presence of the group is lamentably amateurish. Above this, the instrumental prowess is able, but awaits further development. When these aspects are raised to the plane of the creative talents displayed, One Leg Too Short could become a powerful force in local music-making. In the meantime, its endeavours are worthy of support.