Album review: Matt Carmichael - Dancing With Embers (self-released)

Matt Carmichael (tenor sax, piano on tks 1,12); Fergus McCreadie (piano); Ali Watson (bass); Charlie Stewart (fiddle); Tom Potter  (drums) + Chris Amer (electric/tenor guitar on tks 1,8,9,12); Innes White (acc. guitar on tks 3,4,5,8,9); Rachel Sermanni (voice on tk 10); Brighde Chaimbeul (small pipes on tks 6,7)

Given that the musicians were born or are based in and around Glasgow it isn't surprising that the music has a distinctively Celtic feel to it. It's probably nearer to Scottish folk music than it is to jazz.

As such it's well played and even though it's not exactly my dram of single malt I do appreciate the musicianship of the players and the power of the emotions expressed. The melodic lines are indigenous to Scotland and compelling. The emphasis leans towards the ensemble rather than the soloist although Carmichael and McCreadie do have occasional moments of controlled freedom.

In many ways, it's a gem and a further indication that many of today's younger jazz musicians believe that it does mean a thing if it ain't got that swing! It also substantiates Carmichael's musical directions and his ever expanding vision of what the late Sandy Brown used to call McJazz. Lance

Available March 25. Pre-order BANDCAMP.

A Distant Glow; Flint;  Stone Skimmer; Restful Sky; Road From the Sea; Dancing With Embers; Beckoning Night; Aglow; Blue Hour; Mangata; Kite; Woodsmoke