New Release Round-up,
Jazz New Release Round-Up - 12th January 2024
The improvisatory Swiss-born pianist returns with the cream of the crop of New York experimentalists in tow. Typically, you can risk entering dangerous territory when approaching an album largely inspired by French symbolist art, but this fascinating melange of undefinable chamber-jazz is well worth a concentrated listen. Like the unique ‘ghost shark’ from which it takes its name, this rich ensemble is also confined to the murky depths, existing amongst those unknowable zones devoid of light, just at the precipice of waking and dream-states. Their instrumental synergy is unbounded, and it's a genuine pleasure hearing Wadada Leo Smith in such commanding form.
Available Format: 2 CDs
The young Brazilian encapsulates the greatness of his compatriots – Edu Lobo, Egberto Gismonti and more – before putting his own spin on their compositions. At the keyboard, Gomide carries plenty of sleek Jarrett-inspired energy throughout, whilst displaying a natural command for those bluesier moments of sporadic decoration. Though already an accomplished big band and trio-leader, this is the pianist’s debut solo recording: a test for any musician looking to prove their mettle. In an unclouded response, he absolutely soars above the challenge.
Available Formats: CD, MP3, FLAC, Hi-Res FLAC
For this drum-led piano trio, their focus is on a mindset free from distraction. A more inward-looking work compared to his previous offerings, Manzanza’s latest volume is one that never loses its sense of purpose or motion. The Kiwi artist, now based in London (where he hosts the monthly Late Late Show at Ronnie Scott’s), showcases his mature aptitude across each brilliant and diverse track. The crisp production serves this recording well as the musicians are invited to stand on their own feet for this emotionally intelligent rendering of the classic trio format.
Available Formats: Vinyl Record, MP3, FLAC, Hi-Res FLAC
Following the release of his insightful Gefion (2015) and Returnings (2018) albums, Jakob Bro nurtures the spiritual essence of the dark-sounding pieces that embellished these previous recordings in a live setting. Where the rhythm section of Jon Christensen and Thomas Morgan once sat, the Danish guitarist here invites percussionist Marilyn Mazur to enter the fold, which she does with a playful sense of exploration. Palle Mikkelborg’s trumpet is a weightless presence that adds marvellously to the spectral qualities of the trio's overall performance. Far from sombre, the atmosphere is rather electric.
Available Formats: CD, MP3, FLAC, Hi-Res FLAC
No sooner had we published our Jazz Farewells compilation for 2023 than news reached us that another legend had departed. Tony Oxley, the free improvising drummer who made for a vital foil alongside such names as John McLaughlin and Derek Bailey, passed away recently at Christmas. Whilst at first glance his final album possesses a sharp and jagged exterior, given half a chance, it ultimately reveals a soft underbelly. This album, with its expansive title and cover artwork provided by Oxley himself, reminds us of that same character of a man known for his everlasting commitment to reinvention.
Available Formats: CD, MP3, FLAC, Hi-Res FLAC
Barney Whittaker
