New Moon by New Moon

One of the benefits of getting “older” is knowing someone long enough that you truly “get” one another—beyond love, respect, and even a natural conversational shorthand. Nathan and Andre met and began making music together at a pivotal time in their lives and musical development, resulting in a common ground, a bond, a space from which they create and converse.
No longer kids, these improvising composers are at the height of their powers. The music unfolds so naturally that I had to ask Andre if anything was written down beforehand. “Time Capsule,” for example, opens with such a memorable melody and mood that it’s hard to believe that at least a discussion didn’t take place before the performance. I was truly surprised to find out that, no, in fact, this is 100% improvised music.
The notion of BASE jumping came to mind - specifically the moment at which the jumper’s chute opens. This music seems to live in that moment, where risk and reward reside simultaneously. It is spontaneous, adventurous, fresh, yet safe and sure of itself. I also thought of a “trust fall,”, because no matter what direction either player takes, their partner is ready to guide them safely to the ground.
“Silhouette,” for example, begins with a friendly and playful idea from Andre, and Nathan enters the picture as if to say, “Of course, let’s go.” They play this game for a while, and then Nathan sort of changes the rules. Andre agrees wholeheartedly and the game, or composition, morphs, folding in on itself before instinctively coming to rest.
Andre and Nathan's music is spacious, beautiful, playful, and ethereal. It is unplanned yet sure of itself - like a conversation between good friends. We as listeners are the beneficiaries of their friendship. We hope they continue on this path, generating new material for our enjoyment.


Jeremy Udden
June, 2024