Human Spirit: Dialogue

With over a dozen albums combined and plenty of guest appearances on other LPs, Thomas Marriot, Mark Taylor, and Matt Jorgensen, collectively known as Human Spirit, are still dominating the jazz scene. On the group's newest release, Dialogues, they continue to offer a gala of warm vibes, tight arrangements, and fancy showcases for each instrument. Because it was recorded live at the Earshot Jazz Festival, the album also includes a lot of audience reaction, which makes it feel more interactive.

"In Unity" starts things off with quick percussion and fanciful playing. Each instrument gets its moment (or three) in the spotlight as the others provide a grand backing. Guest bassist Essiet Essiet does a remarkable job of keeping everything organized, while guest pianist Orrin Evans provides exquisitely delicate yet purposeful flourishes. Some tracks, such as "Reversal of Fortune" and "After Hours," are more biting and bold, while "Song for Samuel" is extremely quick and playful. The rest of the disc follows the same pattern, with "Pelham Gardens" conveying the excitement and urgency of a proper finale.

If you're a fan of traditional jazz, you no doubt already know that this album should be in your collection. The trio is clearly masters of their instruments, as well as perfectly suited to compose and perform as one entity. The two guest musicians keep up with them fine and add a lot to the arrangements. While seeing the set in person must've been exponentially better, hearing it is definitely thrilling enough.

Track Listing

1. In Unity
2. Stepford and Son
3. Reversal of Fortune
4. Song for Samuel
5. After Hours
6. Ridgecrest
7. 148 Lexington
8. Pelham Gardens

Added: June 19th 2013
Reviewer: Jordan Blum
Score:
Related Link: Official site
Hits: 1933
Language: english

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