The surprising part about this CD is that it is not more avant-garde, considering the musicians who are involved. Multi-reedist
Steve Adams is one of the founders of
Rova,
Bill Horvitz has long been one of the most adventurous of jazz guitarists, and drummer Joseph Sabella has played with
Derek Bailey,
John Zorn, and
Vinny Golia. As a trio, they perform fairly melodically on some of the eight originals (seven by
Horvitz), building up their improvisations slowly and logically. Ballads ("Dust Devil" and the haunting "Occurs to Me") alternate with more fiery improvs ("Watch Your Back" and the rockish "Tic"), with the catchy "Guadeloupe" being a highlight.
Horvitz is such a complete player that one does not notice the lack of a bassist. The versatile
Adams switches between his reeds, adding variety to the ensembles, while Sabella is very attentive, supportive, and stimulating. The musicians let the music breathe and the result is a superior disc well worth several listens. ~ Scott Yanow