This is the Neil Cowley Trio’s first trio album for seven years. Generally, in thematic terms, it addresses the “human push back” against technology, reminding us of “the benefits of communal activity”. After listening, I checked around to gauge others’ impressions, and have to say that I disagree with and was quite astonished by the “All About Jazz” indifferent summation that it sounds as if the album was generated by A1. In fact, while Neil Cowley did bring pre-recorded synth and drum machine parts into the studio (hardly A1!), but, in his own words, “they interfered with the human connection.” A second opinion was sought and it is one with which I agree, “Jazz Views” saying that pointing to the beauty of “Entity” in generating a mood and a dynamic, with not a wasted note.
Economical it certainly is, and all the better for it. For there is nothing flashy or flamboyant about the trio’s music; it relies more on evocation and visceral conjuring for its impact. (Cowley talks of tears during its production). Despite Cowley’s apprehensions, a reconnection was made between his piano compositions, veteran drummer Evan Jenkins (who has played on all eight of the Trio albums) and bassist Rex Horan (who has played on four). When Horan appears more demonstratively on the track ‘V&A’ it is all the more edifying; but generally, both musicians leave ample space for Cowley’s thoughtful melodies and occasional cascades of notes and ‘piano waterfalls’, using his expression pedals to maximum effect. It is difficult to pick out single pieces – after all this album is an entity in itself! I now look forward to hearing the Trio play at the London Jazz Festival – more on that later.
Comments