Label: Clean Feed Records, 2022
Personnel - Martin Küchen: alto saxophone; Magnus Broo: trumpet; Goran Kajfes: trumpet, effects; Mats Äleklint: trombone, sousaphone; Alexander Zethson: piano, synth; Mattias Ståhl: vibraphone; Johan Berthling: double bass; Konrad Agnas: drums.
Angles is an ever-exciting, versatile, and mutable Swedish ensemble led by the cutting-edge saxophonist Martin Küchen. A Muted Reality is their latest recording, and includes three new compositions by the leader, arranged by the group. This album marks a return to the octet format.
Angles’ song archetypes and influences - ranging from West African rhythms to world-folk music to spiritual jazz odysseys - are manifest without sounding rehashed. This musical excursion, glorified by uncompromising ways of expressing feelings and freedom, begins with the title track in a slow, mournful procession of modal ideas. This moderately dark setting leads to an effect-drenched trumpet solo over a measured cadence populated by diaphanous keyboard layers. Over the course of their improvisations, pianist Alexander Zethson and the bandleader deliver modal grandeur and fiery passion, respectively. They are later joined by skewing horns in a demonstration of strength and unity, whereas hope can be felt over the epic final section, whose Eastern tang is bolstered by sigmoid folk melodies and a percolating rhythm.
“The Hidden Balcony” takes those Eastern sounds further deep; no weak moments are found. Creative soloing is ubiquitous with trumpeter Goran Kafjes and trombonist Mats Äleklint having the conn before a wild Polka-style vamp concludes the piece with plenty of rhythmic figures and free blowing. The final cut, stylishly called “Fkk Down, Fkk Off”, is a Mingus-like orchestration with swinging verve and boogie-woogie. The musicians bring some more traditional elements into the setting, making it somewhat nostalgic, and drummer Konrad Agnas celebrates his first appearance with the combo with a good stretch.
A Muted Reality is a thoroughly enjoyable musical flight with limitless space for the soloists to venture as well as moments of maximum collective powerhouse effect.
Favorite Tracks:
01 - A Muted Reality ► 02 - The Hidden Balcony