John Zorn's Flatlands
Roulette509 Atlantic Ave, New York 11217
John Zorn’s Flatlands brings together guitarist Matt Hollenberg, bassist Simon Hanes and drummer Ches Smith as a power trio. Their compact pieces pivot through riffs, atonal melodies, complex rhythms and virtuosic solos, with sudden shifts built into the writing.
The group draws on the hard-driving language of Zorn projects including Simulacrum, Naked City and Insurrection. Reviewing a Philadelphia performance, JazzTimes heard “a sludge-stoner biker gang driving without brakes,” while noting that the closing music could turn “spacious” and “hauntingly tender.”
Roulette occupies a beautifully restored 1928 Art Deco theater in Downtown Brooklyn, offering a spacious concert hall with a dramatic proscenium and a balcony that seats up to 400. The venue is known for its exceptional acoustics and sightlines, making every note clear from front to back. Shows here focus on adventurous and experimental music, often featuring world premieres and collaborations across disciplines. The audience is typically attentive, drawn by the venue's commitment to innovative performances rather than casual socializing. A full bar is available, and seating is flexible, with cushioned chairs arranged to suit each event. The venue’s professional sound and lighting systems enhance the experience, and performances are ticketed, with advance purchase recommended. Expect an evening of thoughtful, boundary-pushing art in a setting that respects both the performers and the audience.