Julian
Siegel - saxophones
& bass clarinets; Phil Robson
– guitars; Thaddeus Kelly – bass; Gene Calderazzo – drums.
(Review
by Steve H.)
The Partisans could be described as an Indie Jazz
British super group - all members being stars in their own right. Swamp is the band’s fifth studio album
since their formation in 1996 and the tightness and empathy in this performance
are apparent throughout.
Flip the Sneck
(Siegel)
is a jolly opener with an easily recognisable theme. Siegel
leads the way before Robson ends the piece with a crushing guitar solo. Low Glow (Siegal) has a great bass background reminiscent of Miles’ 70’s era
recordings complemented by Calderazzo’s sensitive drumming allowing Siegal and
Robson space to flow with fine solos.
Thin
Man (Robson) is driven by
Calderazzo’s classic drumming as again Robson and Siegel serve up tasteful and
interesting solos . The title track Swamp
(Robson) certainly evokes the feeling of being in the middle of some
whirling foggy morass. This is the ‘free-est’
and for me the most enjoyable track on the album again with a
definite Miles Davis electronic feel to
it. Robson uses fascinating electronic effects whilst drum and bass really set
the groove.
Veto (Siegel) is another
vehicle for the tenor player to delight with a more or less straight ahead
piece and the guitar is also played in classic jazz fashion. Overview (Robson) starts with a gentle
airy soprano solo before Robson takes over with one of his more imaginative
guitar breaks. Mickey (Robson) sees Siegel and Robson once more trade solos as
bass and drums provide the perfect backdrop. Finally, Icicle Architects (Robson) starts with a melancholic bass clarinet
solo before slowly building to a rumbling group finale.
Apart from the title track this album is more
landscape garden than quagmire so for those who revel in tight well executed
contemporary jazz played by a first rate ensemble this will be a fine offering.
For those seeking some heavier trekking this album may be a few mud baths short
of a Swamp.
Swamp is released by Whirlwind Recordings Ltd. on Sept. 22.
Steve H.
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