Label: Defkaz Records, 2026
Personnel - Ivo Perelman: tenor saxophone; Elliott Sharp: 8-string electric guitar; Cyro Baptista: percussion, vocals.
Triacontagon unites intrepid saxophonist Ivo Perelman, experimental guitarist Elliott Sharp, and resourceful percussionist Cyro Baptista in a recording that seems inspired by the rainforest. Their highly structured free jazz is filled with mystery and misty sonic landscapes, and it’s refreshing to hear Perelman reconnecting with his Brazilian roots, embracing a cross-genre approach with a contemporary edge, aided by Sharp’s remarkable range of textural possibilities.
On the opener, “Dionysus in the Amazon”, Sharp lays down snappy grooves in the lower register of his eight-string electric guitar while Baptista follows a ritualistic procession of rhythms that ranges from crisp rattles and bright metallic tinkles to deep, resonant vibrations. Perelman moves sinuously above them—employing shrills and trills, cyclical pirouettes, and urgent, punchy staccato attacks—further intensifying the dark, ominous atmosphere. He balances descriptive lyricism and provocative expression with complete authority. At times, however, the electro-acoustic flow is interrupted as quieter, electronics-infused soundscapes emerge.
The highly atmospheric “Sacred Geometry of the Tropics” features rippling ambient guitar textures interacting with gong-like percussion, flute-like sonorities, vocals, whistles, and, at one point, an extended cymbal continuum. Breath-cycling saxophone motifs and piercing intervallic leaps dance freely, leading to animated crescendos. “Inside a Broken Circle” and “Electric Bacchanalia” share a similarly dark harmonic palette, making effective use of Sharp’s poignant textures, Perelman’s wailing saxophone, and Baptista’s rattling percussion, occasional melodica, and jaw harp drones.
While “Irregular Forms in Humid Space” thrives on a weird beat, acute saxophone lines, and low-pitched percussion timbres—all ultimately bound together by exquisite guitar harmonies—“Disordered Continuum” sets heavy Brazilian rhythms against electronics-infused art-rock guitar and intense saxophone flurries.
The trio allows itself to drift through hypnotic sonic forests, its rapport sustained by compelling episodic cycles that leave ample room for the imagination while unfolding with complete abandon.
Favorite Tracks:
01 - Dionysus in the Amazon ► 03 - Inside a Broken Circle ► 04 - Electric Bacchanalia