A folksy/jazzy album by Cork born, Hertfordshire based, pianist and composer John Donegan proving that contrasting genres can be mixed without losing their identity.
Trá has a particularly Irish orientated theme which gradually morphs into a jazzier mode. Daly's tymp stick solo bridges the gap although, despite some fat chords from Donegan, it eventually becomes a traditional Irish folk dance. Trá is actually a small village in County Cork. I hope the villagers acknowledge the honour bestowed upon them by buying the album.
Which Direction brings on Richie Buckley for the first of his four appearances. There's a suggestion of My Favorite Things in this delightfully lilting waltz. Buckley sizzles.
Sole Shuffle shows off the pianist at his best. The tune is as quirky as the title with a touch of tango in the mix. An Irish tango - there's a first!
Interfuse, the first of two solo piano tracks, is beautifully relaxing but not enough to send you to sleep - there's too much going on for that.
Dance in the Light brings Buckley back off the bench. It is not unlike the title track. He, Buckley, describes Donegan's changes as 'challenging'. He meets the challenge. Donegan impresses by laying down the foundation for Buckley as well as lightly dancing on the keys himself.
Cascade, the second solo piano track, again displays Donegan's rich harmonic textures as he develops and restructures his catchy composition.
Constancy. Buckley opts for soprano on this mildly funky piece that showcases not just his instrumental fluency but the mellowness of his sound even in his more outré moments.
Movin' Over. A nod to the Jazz Messengers and Hank Mobley in particular on this one. Needless to say it's my favourite track. O'Neill and Daly do the business down in the engine room whilst for Buckley and Donegan it's full steam ahead.
Enjoyable - check it out. Lance
Release date Oct. 30. Album launch Dec. 5 at Café Posk, London
1 comment :
Thanks Lance for your kind words and constant support. Really appreciate it.
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