Record Reviews

JOHN SURMAN ~ INVISIBLE THREADS ECM 2588 (Barcode: 602567113171) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 2017 Released: 2018 This is an album by iconic British Jazz saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist, recorded in a trio format with Brazilian pianist / composer Nelson AyresFind albums by this artist and American (resident in Norway) vibraphonist Rob WaringFind albums by this artist. The album presents twelve original compositions, all by Surman except one by Ayres. The album was recorded at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo and was engineered by Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist. At the time of writing, this is the last album by Surman on the ECMFind albums on this label label, recorded almost five years ago. The music is almost a typical Surman signature, full of Nordic melancholy, British Folk references, highly lyrical and beautifully melodic. The minimalist trio format suits the music perfectly and the two companions are in complete blissful company with Surman’s long soprano and baritone saxophones and bass clarinet soli, which dominate the proceedings. The wonderfully serene atmosphere that prevails for the entire duration of the album is a soothing remedy for the dreadful noise that surrounds us in the contemporary life, and listening to this music is very much like a meditating session, which restores one’s balance. Surman is a brilliant composer and despite the fact that he recorded dozens of albums with his compositions, he manages to reinvent himself time after time, like a phoenix, fully ablaze in his Genius. Ayres, who is a brilliant pianist and a great composer / arranger, renowned for his Big Band recordings, stays very much in the background on this album, patiently and amicably accompanying Surman, who gets the spotlight, and the same can be said about Waring. The quite unusual sound of saxophone, piano and vibraphone / marimba proves to work out splendidly. Overall, this is another superb addition to Surman’s gorgeous recording legacy, which emphasizes his musical consequence and immense talents. For all his many followers, this is an absolute must have album, and needless to say we all hope for more albums to follow.

Updated: 27/03/2022Posted: 27/03/2022

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