Storms/Nocturnes consists of pianist
Geoff Keezer, vibraphonist
Joe Locke, and multi-reed player
Tim Garland. While they have worked together in the past, this is the first time they have recorded under this new name. The beauty of this release is due in part to the Impressionist nature of each musician's originals, as it is easy to conceive images to every track. The trio fleshes out each composition with brilliant solos and tight ensembles.
Locke's "Her Sanctuary" is simply gorgeous, with
Keezer's shimmering piano, the composer's driving vibes, and
Garland's ethereal soprano sax (with deft use of the bass clarinet for background color in spots).
Keezer's playful "Daily Avenue" is a bluesy post-bop vehicle that darts down several avenues.
Garland's constantly shifting "Ambleside Nights" proves immediately infectious as well, featuring his robust tenor sax. There's never a dull moment in this outstanding CD, and a follow-up session deserves to be in the works. ~ Ken Dryden