Album Information:
Featured on BBC Radio 3’s Jazz Line Up in April 2006,
Conversations is the debut album from Threeway. Consisting of trumpeter and
flugelhornist Steve Waterman, pianist Steve Lodder and electric bassist Ben
Crosland, this is British chamber jazz at its finest.
Recorded for Crosland’s own Jazz Cat label, there is a
sincere sense of comradery throughout the album, with all three musicians
dedicated to the cause of jazz melodicism. Each member is given ample space to
solo, yet none ever venture too far from the structured nature of the
compositions. Marshall Lore in particular is illustrative of this, conjuring
soundscapes usually associated with Kenny Wheeler’s groups. Dedicated to the
memory of Rod Marshall, Crosland’s “longest standing friend in jazz”, Waterman
performs the emotive melody whilst evoking a gorgeous subtle warmth. Lodder too
shines, giving a magnificent display of his nimbleness and pianistic dexterity.
Prior to this the opening track, Miles’ Delight, has
Waterman bridging the reflective gap between Miles Davis’ and Kenny Wheeler’s
sound. It is a beautiful piece, with Crosland driving the tune along with
swinging perfection.
Another example of Threeway’s interplay is Minor
Alterations. Lodder has both the subtle touch for accompaniment and the
graceful skill to shine when soloing – in this particular case he develops some
intricate harmonic explorations. There is a stunning Crosland solo also, with
the bassist soaring in the upper registers of his instrument, creating a sweet
melodious statement.
There is no dwelling on this album, no lingering on the
obvious or extending the unnecessary. The players perform their solos with
precision and then move aside, allowing their band-mate to express themselves.
The album’s ending number, Snowbound, is testament to this. Built around a bass
ostinato, often played in unison with Lodder’s left hand, Waterman’s gorgeous
opening horn melody makes way for some great vamp work from Lodder, who
eventually solos with the added grace of Crosland’s contrary-motion bass work.
Sublime.
This is a little gem of an album, reflecting the sheer
quality of musicianship this country has to offer.
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