Aaron Dolman: drums and compositions
Caitlin Smith: viola
Marcus Savard-Lowry: guitar (left channel)
Zacharie Bachand: guitar (right channel)
Mathieu McConnell: bass
Inspired by the feelings of nostalgia that are stirred up while sifting through old family photos, Nostalgia and Other Fantasies is the debut release from Montreal-based drummer-composer Aaron Dolman. With this album, he presents a collection of original works that combine two of his great musical loves – jazz and folk music. The songs sway between evocative melodies, exciting improvisations and delicate soundscapes.
With his uncompromisingly eclectic approach to composition, Dolman weaves together influences from a wide range of musical experiences. Avant- garde forms collide with playful bluegrass interludes; passages of free improvisation mingle with elements of contemporary chamber-music; solos morph into collective melodies that bring to mind traditional fiddle music. The album dances around notions of style and genre in an honest reflection of Dolman’s voice as a composer, drummer and bandleader.
Equipped with an assortment of bells, antiques and knick-knacks to expand his sound palette, Dolman leads a unique ensemble of viola, upright bass and two guitars. This folk-inspired instrumentation is an engaging departure from the sound of more conventional jazz ensembles and the result is a debut release that sounds remarkably fresh while embracing the familiar intimacy of songs sung around a campfire.
Release Date: November 22nd, 2019