PUBLIQuartet’s ‘Rhythm Nation’ Celebrates Diverse Rhythms in American Music

PUBLIQuartet’s latest album, Rhythm Nation, dives into the varied rhythms that characterize American music. Unlike traditional string quartets that often stick to classic repertoires, PUBLIQuartet explores unconventional musical paths. Their new album showcases their passion for improvisation and diverse musical genres.

Since 2010, PUBLIQuartet has drawn inspiration from pioneering ensembles such as the Kronos Quartet. One key piece on the album is Sunjata’s Time by Malian composer Fodé Lassana Diabaté. Originally for the balafon, it tells the tale of Sunjata Keita and features in the album’s opening with an innovative string arrangement by Jacob Garchik. The arrangement mimics balafon sounds through cello techniques and pizzicato strings that nod to traditional West African music.

On a live 2016 TV appearance, PUBLIQuartet exemplified agility by improvising a soundtrack for a political debate. Their new album continues this adventurous spirit, highlighting compositions like Venezuelan violinist Eddie Venegas’s Cachumbambeando en clave. This groovy piece is grounded in cellist Hamilton Berry’s rhythms, with a solo from violist Nick Revel.

Additionally, Rhythm Nation features a piece by Pulitzer-winning jazz composer Henry Threadgill. His Sixfivetwo plunges into abstract soundscapes with unexpected rhythms and improvised solos, exhibiting the ensemble’s dexterity. Violinist Curtis Stewart especially shines, adding his unique flair to the performance.

Janet Jackson’s 1989 album shares its title with PUBLIQuartet’s record. The players creatively incorporate riffs from Jackson’s music, although some interludes might feel less impactful. More captivating is Jlin’s Baobab, an electronic collaboration where PUBLIQuartet improvises over a sampling of their own music, driven by pulsating rhythms akin to African drumming.

The album reads like an eclectic mixtape, narrating the diverse origins of American music. From Daniel Bernard Roumain’s Hip-hop Etudes to Duke Ellington’s “Come Sunday” and Jeff Scott’s bluesy commission Blues for Buddy, PUBLIQuartet reinvents the classical string quartet. Their innovative, fearless performances are a refreshing contribution to today’s music scene.