COMPOSERS: Paul Motian Trio
LABELS: JMT
WORKS: jazz
PERFORMER: Paul Motian Trio: Joe Lovano (ts), Bill Frisell (9), Paul Motian (d)
CATALOGUE NO: 849 154-2
Like the uniquely innovative trio drummer he is (past trio leaders include top-class pianists Bill Evans, Keith Jarrett and Paul Bley), Paul Motian has created a state-of-the-art, immediately recognisable unit by allying himself with tenor saxophonist Joe Lovano and electric guitarist Bill Frisell. The trio’s exploitation of space, remarkable textural variety and ability to propel their music compellingly through tempos so subtle as to be almost imperceptible, are demonstrated here to a respectful Tokyo audience. Lovano, smokily sonorous, and Frisell, whose solos flicker over Motian’s compositions like flames from a log, combine with Motian to make this a hauntingly beautiful if demanding set. Chris Parker