Instead of perpetuating the importation of American models of jazz, James McLean went and soaked up the ideas and attitudes of someone who had stepped out from that giant shadow decades ago; someone who might help him find his own path into the music – Phil Treloar.
“…like all good modern art it asks to be listened to on its own terms. Yet it does not push away but creates a place for the listener to go and to explore as it happens. Unlike too much ‘experimental’ music, it includes; it does not exclude.”
The ishs/Allen Project has moved in a texturally tougher direction, bringing in electric bassist Paul Bonnington and brass player Ee Shan Pang. Yet this toughness gladly doesn’t bruise the music; it largely serves to add energy to the inherent exuberance of ish’s and Allen’s music.
The Voyage of Mary and William is Matt McMahon’s first recording of solo piano improvisation. In his illuminating liner notes to the CD, he describes the piano – a machine of wood, ivory and wire he remains obviously still smitten by – as ‘this wondrous invention’. The same descriptor could be applied to The Voyage of Mary and William. It is all invention and, yes, it is pretty bloody wondrous.
Ian Patterson reviews The Sweetness of Things Half Remembered. ‘Karlen’s music is both cerebral and emotive. It’s music that’s difficult to box and therein lies a great part of its undoubted appeal.’
Sydney’s Jazzgroove association fifth Summer Fiesta was spread over three venues in Ultimo: Foundry616, Lord Wolseley (I was judged too declassé to admit here) and […] Read More
Outliers (Scrampion Records SCRAMP002) Casey Golden Trio Review by John Hardaker Outliers will be launched on Thursday 5 February 2015 at Venue 505, Sydney In […] Read More
Blending all their influences and references into a seamless, homogenous sound, SHOL prove themselves above labels – but, what’s even more important, they do so with the brilliance of their performance and the power of their beautiful compositions.
That it’s her first album is astonishing. I hope she will find the support to do many more. King gives credit to her phenomenal musicians who she says took the shells of her tunes and weaved such magic with them and to Pete Jeavons, the musician who brought his studio and recording expertise and incredible ears to the table to assist her in realizing her heart felt and impeccably musical vision.
Collin’s research has been considerable, if by no means exhaustive, and his prose is fluent and eminently readable. Morrison’s legion of fans will find much to enjoy.
