The term universal code embodies a considerable collection of different types of character set. First of all, there is Unicode in typography, then genetics, where the word stands for DNA, and it also has a function in programming language and even in ethics. The album »Universal Code« by the Ibiza-based saxophonist offers its music as a further meaning in itself, a modal jazz with a complex polyrhythmic groove that appeals to the spiritual without forgetting the body as an additional audience. The long pieces, with their long improvisations, move along effortlessly, drawing their strength from the highly disciplined ensemble play. Muscle-flexing is not one of the gestures which Muriel Grossmann uses to address her audience together with her three fellow musicians: guitarist Radomir Milojkovic, Llorenç Barceló on Hammond organ and percussionist Uros Stamenkovic, supported on some pieces by bassist Gina Schwarz. Muriel Grossmann‘s compositions have far too much elegance for that. At first listen, this approach seems out of step with the times. But over the nearly seventy minutes that »Universal Code« spans, it simply reveals itself to be a classical vocabulary that derives its topicality entirely from the fact that these melodies and harmonies, these phrasings and accents, which all fall into place so naturally, speak very directly to you. »Resonance«, »Clarity«, »Interconnection« are the names of the first three numbers. They describe exactly what music does to you.
Nels Cline
Consentrik Quartet
Blue Note