By Hrayr Attarian
The absorbing Keep Telling Yourself That is a series of stimulating
improvised dialogues between bassist Maggie Cox and violinist Jennifer
Gersten. Together, the New York-based Cox and Gersten go by the name Goal
Weight. This is the duo’s debut recording, though there is nothing freshman
about it, as it demonstrates both creative maturity and impeccable
camaraderie.
The opening “Candy Doll Bluff” has a martial rhythm with hints of whimsy.
Cox’s percussive chords set the mood with their exacting rhythms. Gersten’s
twangy pizzicatto bounces off the bassist’s taut refrains at unexpected
times, and with theatrical flair endowing the piece with a humorous
undercurrent.
“Brian 1” that follows matches Cox’s energetic bowing with Gersten’s tolling
strings. The conversation grows from delightfully dissonant and fiery to
serene and melancholic. Cox’s darkly expectant melodies hint at the
baroque. Gersten’s crisp and angular lines contribute to the dramatic
ambiance. As the tune progresses, the violinist plays a wistful song that
the bassist mirrors. The collective refrains enhance the anticipatory mood
and lead to the solemn conclusion.
Western classical influences appear frequently throughout the album as both
musicians are trained and skilled in both experimental and traditional
musical styles. This is most pronounced on the title track. A wistful and
pastoral duet on which Cox and Gerster mirror one another in their
mellifluous musings. There is a sublime balance between unbridled
spontaneity and warm, emotive expression.
Meanwhile, “Your New Uncle” opens with sparse groans and chimes that slowly
coalesce into an intriguing, cinematic performance. It sounds like the
soundtrack to an experimental film. Cox’s muscular phrases are like an
approaching storm, while Gersten’s plucked and strummed notes have a mix of
zen-like serenity and an undercurrent of angst. The flow of intertwined
improvisations is both seamless and quite adventurous.
This imaginative and thought-provoking album is a demonstration of
virtuosity and brilliance. Above all, it is Cox and Gersten’s bold,
synergistic explorations brimming with lyricism that make this a work to
savor.