Joy Ellis has made several appearances in the north east - a couple of gigs at the Globe and one at the Jazz Café. The gig reviews as well as a couple of CD reviews and a livestream review can be accessed here. All well received but, with a difference.
The gigs and the CD's praised her singing alongside her instrumental input - justifiably so.
On this, her latest album, the voice is silent and the piano takes centre stage. This may be, initially, disappointing but, as the album unfolds, so does the realisation emerge that, beautifully as she sings, the piano is her true forte (no pun intended).
Explorative, reflective, inventive. Attributes we accorded the late Bill Evans and which are equally appropriate here. Seven original compositions that reflect the album's title and demonstrate just how effectively Ellis can paint a picture both as a pianist and a composer. Bass and drums support her throughout with Jensen's lines and solos along with Osmianski's making it a complete unit just as LaFaro and Motian did for Evans.
A landmark in British contemporary jazz piano. Lance
Available on Oti-O Records from March 25. Launch at Vortex Jazz Club on March 24.
My Peaceful Place; Day of Rest; Eat, Sleep, Repeat; Losing; Silver Linings; Cascade; Begin again.
No comments :
Post a Comment