Anagram: from Greek anagrammatismos, meaning, "transposition of letters."
In the context of this dynamic musical quartet, anagram means a transposition and amalgamation of musical styles, forms and ideas. The Manitoba-based band resulted from sticking three jazz musicians in a room with a Celtic fiddler.
Late one night in the practice halls of Brandon University saxophonist/pianist Ben Dietschi asked violinist Serena Eades for a couple of fiddle tunes to dabble in. The next thing they knew, the music took on a life of its own as the traditional melodies took on non-traditional forms, harmonies and grooves. Adding a dash of Jesse Dietschi's adventurous and sensitive acoustic and electric bass playing and Graydon Cramer's intense and energetic drumming, they have come up with an exciting genre of music that is progressive and accessible, lively and thoughtful, interesting and, of course, danceable!
Musical repertoire ranges from traditional Cape Breton jigs and reels to more progressive jazz-influenced groove based tunes. The spirit of complete freedom and improvisation is juxtaposed with carefully planned elements, thus the music will never be played exactly the same way twice. The group strives to impart a free spirited approach to group collaboration, allowing the music to breathe of its own accord. Influences from funk, Latin, rock and jazz come together with Celtic music to bring you sincerely individual interpretations of the music. Think Bela Fleck meets Shooglenifty meets Natalie MacMaster meets Metalwood.
Anagram has been invigorating audiences throughout Manitoba and is coming to the Sunshine Coast to share some great music.
Come and check them out at the Gumboot Café in Roberts Creek, on Friday, July 29, at 8 p.m. Tickets are $6 for adults, $4 kids 12 and under, available at Coast Books, the Roberts Creek Health Food Store and Talewind Books.
