PUBLIQuartet’s new album, Rhythm Nation, delves into the diverse rhythms found in American music. Unlike typical string quartets that focus on standard repertoire, this New York-based group embraces daring choices, integrating improvisation into their performances.
Their musical journey pans a wide spectrum, from West African and Venezuelan influences to modern jazz standards and nods to Janet Jackson. This adventurous spirit recalls the pioneering Kronos Quartet, which over fifty years ago expanded classical music by commissioning new works and seeking global influences. Since its inception in 2010, PUBLIQuartet has followed Kronos’ lead, evident in Rhythm Nation.
A Revolutionary Album
The album begins with a piece from Kronos’ 50 for the Future project, featuring Sunjata’s Time by Malian composer Fodé Lassana Diabaté. This suite tells the story of Sunjata Keita, renowned as the founder of the Mali Empire in 1235. Originally written for the balafon, Jacob Garchik’s string quartet arrangement captures its essence through cello double stops and pizzicato mimicking the kora.
PUBLIQuartet thrives on dynamic performances. In 2016, they improvised a live TV soundtrack for a presidential debate. Today, they request compositions tailored to their style, as seen in Eddie Venegas’ Cachumbambeando en clave, a rhythm-heavy piece with a notable solo from violist Nick Revel.
The album showcases the ensemble’s range, from global beats by Diabaté and Venegas to the complex rhythms in Pulitzer-winning jazz composer Henry Threadgill’s Sixfivetwo. This piece features abstract figures and percussive energy, complemented by improvised solos like those from violinist Curtis Stewart, who highlights neglected works by Black composers.
Riffs and Rhythms
Naming the album after Janet Jackson’s 1989 Rhythm Nation was intentional. For PUBLIQuartet violinist Janinna Norpoth, it symbolizes inclusivity. They intersperse brief riffs on Jackson’s tunes, yet the standout track is Baobab by electronic artist Jlin. Here, quartet samples underpin an improvisational, percussive landscape.
The album unfolds like a carefully curated mixtape, arguing that American music’s narrative is deeply rooted in various rhythms. Highlights include Daniel Bernard Roumain’s Hip-hop Etudes, Duke Ellington’s Come Sunday, a new piece by Mazz Swift, and Jeff Scott’s Blues for Buddy, weaving between tango and a New Orleans-style processional.
PUBLIQuartet redefines the traditional string quartet, moving beyond the genteel refinement of Haydn and Mozart. They excel in commissioning, curating, and performing music with boldness and purpose. Their innovative approach represents the exciting future of string quartets.