Alabaster DePlume – A Blade Because A Blade Is Whole
On his fourth outing with legendary jazz imprint International Anthem, Alabaster DePlume seeks to soothe a troubled world
Alabaster DePlume’s splayed fingers touch in lively sculpture on the cover of A Blade Because A Blade Is Whole, conjuring pure, simple healing without frills. There’s no question DePlume is a remarkable saxophonist, his orchestral arrangements with International Anthem labelmate Macie Stewart are stunning, yet the appeal is a tenderness for the listener.
The bright, wintery saxophone of Oh My Actual Days heralds a folkier first act, though not without the odd dubby, psych-y moment, recalling Total Refreshment Centre pals Soccer96 on A Paper Man and Form a V. Thank You My Pain acts as a reminder that feeling something, anything, in this desensitised world is miraculous. Invincibility follows, with beautiful chorals and droning, Nick Drake vocals. On the making of this record DePlume says: “I had Palestine on my mind all the time.” DePlume seeks to soothe a world reeling from lockdown and violently thrust into a 24-hour news nightmare post-October 7th. The second act is a balm; sweeping orchestral movements, stunning sax motifs, tender strings.
Like the cover image, the record is a simple yet beautifully executed reminder to reflect, find healing and resist vanity.
Listen to: Thank You My Pain, A Paper Man, That Was My Garden