Marc Ribot Plays Solo Guitar Works of Frantz Casseus [1993]

This gentle, understated album shows NY guitar madman, Marc Ribot, extending his diverse reperatoire into Haitian folk-based compositions. Playing the music of this former Harry Belafonte guitarist--as well as his former guitar teacher--Ribot trades in his patented twangy tones, stylistic collages, and sheets of noise for a more subtle, clean sound. Like Heitor Villa Lobos in Brazil, Casseus was interested in creating a National classical music based on local folk-melodies. Unfortunatley, apart from a few recordings in the fifties and sixties, Casseus' music was never really documented or studied, until now. In spite of the folksy veneer of this recording, "The Works of Frantz Casseus" reveals a lot about Ribot's musical roots, and helps to explain his interest in eccentric musical contexts. Quirky and unpredictable, Casseus' compositions stroll along into strange places; they reveal a quick wit and ironic humour that is much closer to Ribot's own work than may be expected. These are complex compositions that demand a virtuoso like Ribot, someone who can quote a wide range of styles and musical concepts on a dime. This album is a wonderful ode to a little-known composer, and an intersting diversion for those familiar with Ribot's other work. 

 

 

 

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