Label: ECM Records, 2024
Personnel - Thomas Strønen: drums, percussion; Craig Taborn: piano; Chris Potter: tenor and soprano saxophone; Sinikka Langeland: voice, kantele; Jordy Rossy: piano.
Between 2018 and 2022, Norwegian drummer Thomas Strønen invited four accomplished musicians to contribute to his latest album, Relations. Each responded to pre-recorded drum tracks with complete creative freedom. Pianist Craig Taborn and saxophonist Chris Potter recorded their parts from New York, vocalist and kantele player Sinikka Langeland from Oslo, and Barcelona-born multi-instrumentalist Jorge Rossy, playing piano exclusively, from Basel. The resulting work comprises two solo percussion tracks and ten duets that, while not adhering to conventional jazz formats, explore unique sonic landscapes.
The album opens with “Confronting Silence”, a solo piece by Strønen. Vibrant metallic gongs are unexpectedly crossed by quick snippets of rattling percussion. “The Axiom of Equality”, a duet with Taborn, showcases evolving timbral textures through fragmented, free-flowing drum and cymbal patterns, while Taborn, choosing not to hear the drum track beforehand, meanders unpredictably, embracing pure spontaneity.
Potter’s commanding saxophone presence is felt on “Weaving Loom”, where his expansive tenor lines bring richness and contrast to Strønen’s shimmering brushwork after a contemplative opening. On “Ephemeral”, Potter switches to soprano, channeling an explosive energy that intertwines seamlessly with Strønen’s propulsive rhythms, achieving a palpable symbiotic intensity.
Langeland introduces Nordic folk elements on “Koyasan”, blending the delicate tones of the kantele with Strønen’s sensitive rhythmic flourishes and unexpected stream. On “Nemesis”, she enjoys a more fluid rhythmic arc, while on “Beginners Guide to Simplicity” she uses her clear, evocative voice, adding a distinct dimension to it.
Rossy’s piano contributions span three tracks. While his restrained, light touch on “Nonduality” may feel less impactful, he captivates on “Ishi”, where a number of low-register blows evokes a mysterious ambiance, and “KMJ”, a piece of harmonically palpable introspection with subtle, persuasive movement. Known primarily as a drummer, Rossy impresses here with his pianistic sensibilities.
Relations eschews conservatism, offering unexpected surprises and intimate dialogues between Strønen’s broad rhythmic vocabulary and his collaborators’ distinctive voices. Although sounding off-beat at times, this work reflects the spirit of innate improvisers, unafraid to present something refreshingly different.
Favorite Tracks:
02 - The Axiom of Equality ► 03 - Weaving Loom ► 08 - Ephemeral ► 12 - KMJ