concert review: Francois Rabbath @ Benson Great Hall, Bethel University, June 30th, 2015

The upright bass.  More often than not, in jazz, it is used, obviously, as a rhythm instrument.  There are many great bassists in the world of jazz.  But, French player, and teacher, Francois Rabbath is quite different.  He and his son, pianist, Sylvain Rabbath, played to an enthusiastic crowd Tuesday night at Bethel University's Benson Great Hall.  Most of the numbers played, were of Rabbath's own composition, and, during the show, he paid tribute, with one, to the late, great jazz saxophonist, Ornette Coleman.

It is Rabbath's tone, on the double bass, that is of such magnitude to the ear, when you hear it.  Rabbath is able to find notes, with, or without the use of a bow, that usually, are not heard on the instrument.  He has virtuosic ability, to take the double bass to new and fantastic heights.  He, and son Sylvain on piano, exchanged musical thoughts and ideas, extremely well.  They were very much united in their sonic explorations.  To top off the evening, Rabbath let students from the Twin Cities Bass Camp, (of which, this was a culminating performance), perform with him, for a number, towards the end of the set.

Once again, it is Rabbath's tone, with the use of a bow, on the double bass, that is the most intriguing part of his performance, and his interpretation (also found on a 2012 recording), of compositions by the great Johann Sebastian Bach.  His tone is mellow, pleasing, and articulate.  To find out more, about this recording, if you happen to have access to Spotify, check out the aforementioned 2012 record, "Bach: Suites pour violoncello seul a la contrabasse".  This is the album, to hear, what he does in such a magnificent way.  Don't just take my word for it.  Definitely, check it out.

Rabbath is one of those unique masters of his instrument, as a player, and as a teacher.  One more thing.  The Bach recordings, are one of two albums by Rabbath, on Spotify.  Also, look into 1998's "Turquie: Le chant des poetes".  After the show, yours truly, briefly met Francois Rabbath, at least shaking hands with the great master, and exchanging some conversation about music.  This was special, as it is very likely one of Rabbath's last performances he will ever give to an audience.  The man is another true legend, and he eloquently presented his virtuosity on the double bass, on this evening.