The PUBLIQuartet’s latest album, Rhythm Nation, delves into the diverse spectrum of rhythm in American music. Unlike conventional string quartets that stick to safe, traditional repertoires, this New York-based ensemble embraces improvisation and variety.
On Rhythm Nation, listeners embark on a journey through various musical landscapes, from West African and Venezuelan influences to complex modernist pieces, jazz standards, and even references to Janet Jackson. The PUBLIQuartet draws inspiration from the innovative Kronos Quartet, known for pushing the boundaries of classical music for over fifty years.
Founded in 2010, the PUBLIQuartet continues the Kronos legacy by exploring global musical influences. The album opens with Sunjata’s Time by Malian composer Fodé Lassana Diabaté, originally for the balafon, a West African marimba. Arranger Jacob Garchik adapts it for string quartet, capturing the rich sounds of the original instrument through techniques like cello double stops and pizzicato.
Renowned for their agility and adventurous spirit, the PUBLIQuartet even improvised a live soundtrack for the 2016 presidential debate. They invite composers to contribute, like Venezuelan violinist Eddie Venegas with Cachumbambeando en clave, a syncopated track showcasing cellist Hamilton Berry and violist Nick Revel.
The album showcases a range of global rhythms, juxtaposing Diabaté and Venegas’ influences with Pulitzer-winning jazz composer Henry Threadgill’s Sixfivetwo. This piece explores abstract themes with its percussive textures. Violinist Curtis Stewart adds a touch of improvisation that transitions from delicate to boldly funky, highlighting underappreciated concertos by Black composers.
Janet Jackson’s 1989 album, which inspired the title Rhythm Nation, impacted violinist Janinna Norpoth profoundly, and the quartet incorporates brief nods to Jackson, although not all of them resonate effectively.
More striking is the track Baobab by electronic artist Jlin, who transforms samples of the quartet’s music into a vibrant percussive landscape. The piece begins with a gritty glissando, reminiscent of unlocking a creaky door to reveal hidden treasures, and retains the essence of African drumming.
This album plays like a thoughtfully curated mixtape, illustrating the rich tapestry of American music’s varied rhythms. From Daniel Bernard Roumain’s Hip-hop Etudes to Duke Ellington’s Come Sunday, it features work by neurodivergent composer Mazz Swift and Jeff Scott’s Blues for Buddy, a piece oscillating between tango rhythms and New Orleans flair.
The PUBLIQuartet challenges traditional string quartet norms from the 18th century led by Haydn and Mozart. By commissioning new pieces, curating them creatively, and performing courageously, they set a new standard for string quartets today.