The absorbing Keep Telling Yourself That is a series of stimulating improvised dialogues between bassist Maggie Cox and violinist Jennifer Gersten. Together, the New York-based Cox and Gersten go by the name Goal Weight. This is the duo’s debut recording, though there is nothing freshman about it, as it demonstrates both creative maturity and impeccable camaraderie.
The opening “Candy Doll Bluff” has a martial rhythm with hints of whimsy. Cox’s percussive chords set the mood with their exacting rhythms. Gersten’s twangy pizzicatto bounces off the bassist’s taut refrains at unexpected times, and with theatrical flair endowing the piece with a humorous undercurrent.
“Brian 1” that follows matches Cox’s energetic bowing with Gersten’s tolling strings. The conversation grows from delightfully dissonant and fiery to serene and melancholic. Cox’s darkly expectant melodies hint at the baroque. Gersten’s crisp and angular lines contribute to the dramatic ambiance. As the tune progresses, the violinist plays a wistful song that the bassist mirrors. The collective refrains enhance the anticipatory mood and lead to the solemn conclusion.
Western classical influences appear frequently throughout the album as both musicians are trained and skilled in both experimental and traditional musical styles. This is most pronounced on the title track. A wistful and pastoral duet on which Cox and Gerster mirror one another in their mellifluous musings. There is a sublime balance between unbridled spontaneity and warm, emotive expression.
Meanwhile, “Your New Uncle” opens with sparse groans and chimes that slowly coalesce into an intriguing, cinematic performance. It sounds like the soundtrack to an experimental film. Cox’s muscular phrases are like an approaching storm, while Gersten’s plucked and strummed notes have a mix of zen-like serenity and an undercurrent of angst. The flow of intertwined improvisations is both seamless and quite adventurous.
This imaginative and thought-provoking album is a demonstration of virtuosity and brilliance. Above all, it is Cox and Gersten’s bold, synergistic explorations brimming with lyricism that make this a work to savor.
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