by Steve Loewy
This remarkable two-CD set catches Belgium pianist Fred Van Hove live at Les Instants Chavirés near Paris. One of the few aggressively freestyle pianists largely free of Cecil Taylor's influence, Van Hove spurts forth notes at rapid-fire intensity, with machine gun-like precision. His command of the keyboard is awesome, and he alternately pounds, rifles, and strums with unmitigated fire. For Van Hove, the piano is chewing tobacco that he chomps, mashes, and spits out. His percussive style complements a more melodic side, which resonates with two fists pounding, followed by inside strings plucked, and the wood slapped. The n heat never tires, as ideas flow endlessly. Nothing, of course, compares to seeing the unassuming Van Hove in person, but this album thrills with almost 100 minutes of very special listening.