The fast company
Bergonzi keeps on this release includes
Joey Calderazzo (piano),
Lars Danielsson (bass), and
Jukkis Uotila (drums). Each band member contributes two, primarily extended compositions on this effort. Overall, this is aggressive, challenging jazz music. The listener is not cheated by the 73 minutes of playing time; however, there are points during which those minutes seem slightly too generous, especially during
Bergonzi's "Conjunction" and
Uotila's "Invitation," where the group action is not well sustained. The most interesting playing takes place on the strength of
Calderazzo's compositions. "The Lag" is quick yet unhurried, and "Echoes" is thoughtful yet dynamic. When the group is at its best, as on these two tracks, they offer cohesive, harmonically inventive, assertive post-bop. ~ Brian Bartolini