MARTIN PYNE QUARTET - Rickety Racket
Digital Album
Stream & Download from Bandcamp
Philippe Guyard (tenor & soprano saxophone); Russell Jarrett (guitar); Marianne Windham (bass); Martin Pyne (drums)
Martin Pyne describes this release as the 'closest to a straight ahead jazz recording I've done'. This should not imply that this is anything resembling a simple blowing session, as those that know the percussionist's work will acknowledge the he is far too canny for that, and what Pyne has presented us with are seven original compositions for contemporary jazz quartet that are superbly written and arranged.
Martin confines himself to drums on this outing and does so with great aplomb. His playing often gives the impression of being simple and uncluttered, guiding the musicians through the material with a gentle hand on the tiller. Careful and attentive listening reveals an astute musical mind, and some complex and tricky parts that are handled effortlessly contributing to the lyricism and grace of the music.
This dexterity at the kit is heard on the introduction to 'Pony Express' featuring some lovely soprano from Philippe Guyard, and a wonderful solo from guitarist Russell Jarrett over propulsive rolling rhythms from the drums. Guyard's soprano saxophone is also featured on the title track, 'Rickety Racket', with the composer tipping his hat to Thelonious Monk with it's delightfully off kilter theme. By contrast 'Sixes And Sevens' has a fantastic rhythmic groove laid down by bassist, Marianne Windham, and unison theme for tenor and guitar before Jarrett eases int his most expansive solo of the album.
With this fine recording Martin Pyne has brought together a wonderful quartet who perfectly interpret his compositions, and that is no more apparent than in the ballads featured, which for this listener are a real highlight. The open and light sound of the four musicians are brought to the fore as is Jarrett's superb accompaniment, leaving as much space as he fills allowing the music to breathe, coupled with Guyard's luxurious and lush sound on tenor saxophone on 'Miss You Already (Song For Cheryl)' and 'A Stillness At Appomattax' are the jewels in this highly impressive crown.
Reviewed by Nick Lea
Digital Album
Stream & Download from Bandcamp
Philippe Guyard (tenor & soprano saxophone); Russell Jarrett (guitar); Marianne Windham (bass); Martin Pyne (drums)
Martin Pyne describes this release as the 'closest to a straight ahead jazz recording I've done'. This should not imply that this is anything resembling a simple blowing session, as those that know the percussionist's work will acknowledge the he is far too canny for that, and what Pyne has presented us with are seven original compositions for contemporary jazz quartet that are superbly written and arranged.
Martin confines himself to drums on this outing and does so with great aplomb. His playing often gives the impression of being simple and uncluttered, guiding the musicians through the material with a gentle hand on the tiller. Careful and attentive listening reveals an astute musical mind, and some complex and tricky parts that are handled effortlessly contributing to the lyricism and grace of the music.
This dexterity at the kit is heard on the introduction to 'Pony Express' featuring some lovely soprano from Philippe Guyard, and a wonderful solo from guitarist Russell Jarrett over propulsive rolling rhythms from the drums. Guyard's soprano saxophone is also featured on the title track, 'Rickety Racket', with the composer tipping his hat to Thelonious Monk with it's delightfully off kilter theme. By contrast 'Sixes And Sevens' has a fantastic rhythmic groove laid down by bassist, Marianne Windham, and unison theme for tenor and guitar before Jarrett eases int his most expansive solo of the album.
With this fine recording Martin Pyne has brought together a wonderful quartet who perfectly interpret his compositions, and that is no more apparent than in the ballads featured, which for this listener are a real highlight. The open and light sound of the four musicians are brought to the fore as is Jarrett's superb accompaniment, leaving as much space as he fills allowing the music to breathe, coupled with Guyard's luxurious and lush sound on tenor saxophone on 'Miss You Already (Song For Cheryl)' and 'A Stillness At Appomattax' are the jewels in this highly impressive crown.
Reviewed by Nick Lea
