That the twisted imagination of underground comix legend Robert Crumb could inspire contemporary classical music as aesthetically pleasing as John A. Carollo's "Ampersand" (http://cdbaby.com/cd/jacarollo) is further proof of the transcendent qualities of art. Featuring characteristically warped illustrations (for example, somebody getting his head drilled) by Robert's brother Maxon, "Ampersand" represents a clash of stylistic perspectives that ends up being an ambitious, impressive work.
Certainly having Maxon's quirky, unhinged art on the sleeves is an attention-getter, but they reflect Carollo's refusal to play it safe. "Ampersand" is broken into four parts: The opening "Piano Preludes" is followed by compositions utilizing flute and cello.
The highlights are found in the third reel, "The Crumb Suite for Solo Piano." This finds Carollo at his best. Composing an entire suite for a comic book icon and his family is probably a first; I've certainly never heard anything like it before. But this isn't some novelty. "Robert at the Easel" is beautifully structured and performed; it has a cinematic feel that wows the senses. "Sophie's Characters" features mesmerizing, relaxing tones, and "Sketch for Aline" is playfully inventive.
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The musicianship produces awe. "With Moderate Determination" is an exhilarating jam, and on "With Elegance and Grace," the flute soars, taking on a life of its own.
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