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Hutchinson Andrew Trio: Prairie Modern

By Glenn Astarita
March 11, 2014
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Track review of "What Next"

Grammy-nominated sax titan

Donny McCaslin

saxophone, tenor
b.1966

" data-original-title="" title="">Donny McCaslin adds some red- hot verve to the Canadian piano trio's third album, including expert Brazilian percussionist Rogerio Boccato, appearing on three works. Indeed, the core unit injects pastoral elements into the jazz-centric vibe, while enhancing its panorama with cascading storylines, brawny developments and a host of harmonically attractive thematic opuses. The band often kicks matters into 10th gear while incorporating Latin jazz and a few windblown Midwestern movements into the grand schema. However, many of the pieces featuring McCaslin go straight for the proverbial jugular.

McCaslin and the trio get straight to the point on the zesty, swing and bop-tinged "What Next." The trio initiates the gala with sinuous unison lines, counteracted by the saxophonist who steers the band into a crisp free-flight swing pulse. McCaslin's stout tone and fluid improvisations are anchored by the trio's gelling impetus, as drummer Karl Schwonik alters the bridge with a sweeping polyrhythmic solo, followed by a loping fadeout. Moving forward, the musicians pick it back up and revisit the peppery opening, leading to closeout.

Viewing the album as a whole, the Hutchinson Andrew Trio possesses the goods to become a prominent act within modern jazz circles. The added bonus pertains to their impressive compositional acumen. Thus, you won't find any filler material on this quality packed exhibition.

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Track Listing

Mountain Rose; The Fog; Waltz for Clay; The Realm - Part I; The Realm - Part II; Wilds; Ponderado Intro; Ponderado; Prairie Wind; What Next; Mintaka; Beautiful Thorn; Essence of Beauty, Peace and Life.

Personnel

Hutchinson Andrew Trio

Karl Schwonik: drums; Chris Andrew: piano; Kodi Hutchinson: double bass; Donny McCaslin: saxophone.

Album information

Title: Prairie Modern | Year Released: 2014 | Record Label: Chronograph Records

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