Musicians: John Hollenbeck (drums, composition), Drew Gress (acoustic bass), Matt Moran (vibraphone, percussion), Chris Speed (clarinet, tenor sax), Ted Reichman (accordion)
Review: Whether in a supporting role or as a leader, John Hollenbeck’s method of jazz drumming is unequal parts exactitude, and wit, enhanced by a polyrhythmic composure. However, he supplants these attributes with a spunky and rather spirited compositionally minded disposition. On this truly wonderful outing, the drummer’s cleverly performed grooves provide a clearly definable spark for the soloists’ various maneuvers. On the opener “Just Like Him,” Hollenbeck and bassist Drew Grass lay down a perky ostinato motif. Here, Chris Speed’s lilting clarinet lines and Matt Moran’s soft vibes offer flotation-like qualities as the band subtly shifts the pulse amid airy dreamscapes.
Ted Reichman’s oscillating accordion work on the piece titled “Opening,” tenders a semblance of an electronic element, whereas the band often conjures up an aura, befitting children at play. The musicians’ inject charm and wit into these cyclically generated works. It’s like clockwork! As a portion of these semi-structured themes ring up notions of ethereal vistas and cautiously enacted sojourns. Ultimately, Hollenbeck’s lighthearted compositional style suggests a trance-like state that moves through an aggregation of linearly devised ebbs and flows. However, the one constant during this production is how the music proceeds in such a delicate, and largely inauspicious manner. One of the year’s very best! (Feverishly recommended…)
JazzReview.com
