Misinterprotato
Variations
(Jazzhead/MGM)
Rating: ****
This new release from the Brisbane piano trio with an intriguing name, sounds even more classically influenced than their 2005 album In Is In.
Pianist and leader Sean Foran has composed most of the pieces, with another three by drummer John Parker. Island of The Sun establishes a bossa beat before the piano begins a running fugue-like theme which builds to a crashing crescendo of a solo followed by Pat Marchisella’s fast moving bass interlude, preceding a return to theme.
Several guest artists make an appearance: violin, viola, alto sax, plus Peter Knight’s moodily expressive trumpet on an introspective ballad, Ascent.
A more energetic approach is used on the trio’s Chunk, a jagged, polyrhythmic exposition with free jazz style clashes between the instruments.
The final track, Labyrinth is a completely improvised soundscape utilising prepared piano, sliding bass harmonics, and a busy but not overpowering drum kit.
A fine example of contemporary music in various tempos, incorporating a range of moods, and drawing extensively on diverse classsical references fused with 21st century jazz ideas.
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This review first appeared in The Weekend Australian and is republished with permission of the author.
