Label: Hot Cup Records, 2024
Personnel - Stacy Dillard: tenor saxophone; Matt Nelson: alto saxophone; Kyle Saulnier: baritone saxophone; Bobby Spellman: trumpet; Dave Taylor: trombone; Ava Mendoza: guitar; George Burton: piano; Moppa Elliot: bass; Mike Pride: drums.
Besides leading the experimental jazz group Most Other People Do the Killing, bassist and composer Moppa Elliott spearheads a brash nonet called Acceleration Due to Gravity, which employs a bevy of powerful improvisers. Their second album, Jonesville, inspired by the music of bassist/cellist Sam Jones, includes fiery readings of Jones’ compositions as well as Elliott originals. For each of the pieces, the bandleader opted for loop-founded maneuvers with three solo sections and no duplication of chorus, opening space for scorching and buoyant improvisations.
The band is perfect for Elliott as an outlet for his writing, and some pieces stand out: “Delaware Water Gap” throws in some R&B detritus in the mix and features altoist Matt Nelson in an outside venture; “Unity” climaxes during a soloing exchange between guitarist Ava Mendoza and trumpeter Bobby Spellman; and the fashionably distinct “Jonesville” closes out the album with funky electric bass, a muted trumpet figure, thick shards of electric guitar, and saxophone unorthodoxy.
The interpretations of Sam Jones’ compositions are equally powerful, with “Choice” opening the session with manic intensity and vibrant improvisations from the horn players. At an early stage, Nelson and tenorist Stacy Dillard embark on punky solos, and then is baritonist Kyle Saulnier who contributes deep thoughts to the general gleeful enthusiasm. “Miami Drag” features the shuffling pianism of George Burton, revealing a strident pacing where jazzy colors inundate the rock-infused backbone. Hints of Charlie Parker’s melodies are spotted on the formerly described piece as well as on “Stack of Dollars”, a Latin burner at its loudest, where “Fascinating Rhythm” is quoted at the end of the saxophone solo.
Jonesville is a kinetic and playful album where one can sense the enjoyment of the musicians involved. If you like your jazz with energy, drive, and hard-nosed improvisations, this album is sure to delight.
Favorite Tracks:
01 - Choice ► 06 - Stack of Dollars ► 07 - Jonesville