SCOTT COLLEY, EDWARD SIMON, BRIAN BLADE

THREE VISITORS

GroundUP Records

Scott Colley, bass; Edward Simon, piano; Brian Blade, drums; Rogério Boccato, percussion; Becca Stevens & Jana Dagdagan, vocals; Richard Rood & Elizabeth Lim-Dutton, violin; Katheryn Lockwood, viola; Sachi Patitucci, cello; Chris Potter, tenor saxophone.

Edward Simon’s composition, “Nostalgia” opens this album.  I am immediately drawn into the production, with Scott Colley’s bass singing to me and Simon’s classical piano designating the melody and chord changes.  The arrangement grows with the addition of strings that paint fresh colors across the face of the tune.  This music captures the trio’s deeply rooted connection.  They are three souls who have evolved over three decades of working together.  According to publicist notes, the title of this album and the merge of these three musical personalities explores the idea of visitation, not just on a physical plane, but recalling influences from jazz greats who have shaped their artistry, even though they may not still be present on earth.  These three talented gentlemen are composing and playing music that is meant to bridge the here and the hereafter, as well as entertaining their listeners with wonderful music.

Drummer Brian Blade has contributed a tune called “Kintsukuroi” that encourages me to listen with attention to their spiritual bond and collective dialogue.  These three men are obviously very comfortable with each other. They bring a sense of peace and intuitive transformation to their music. Colley takes a meaningful and inspired bass solo during this arrangement. The trio’s purposeful music both relaxes and inspires.

Scott Colley has contributed four original songs to this album. I enjoyed the way he introduced “The Thicket” on his upright bass, with just Colley on drums supporting him.  When Edward Simon joins on piano, playing an abrupt introduction, like a trumpeter at the kings palace who introduces an unexpected guest, the drum solo appears.  The arrangement is engaging, swiftly moving to a Straight-ahead walking bass line and doubling the time beneath Simon’s dramatic piano solo.

On the fade of a tune called “You Are,” Jana Dagdagan’s spoken word is added to surprise the listener.  Chris Potter is also featured on tenor saxophone.  Then, on “I Wanna Be with You” vocalist Becca Stevens sings atop the trio’s original song composed by Becca and Edward Simon.  This is an adventurous and entertaining production.  It inspires me to pull out my acrylics and start painting.

Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil

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