Label: ears&eyes Records, 2020

Personnel - Alexander Massa: trumpet; Mai Sugimoto: alto saxophone; Artie Black: tenor saxophone; Anton Hatwich: bass; Isaiah Spencer: drums, percussion.

Disappointed by the poor way our planet has been treated lately, trumpeter Alexander Massa, a native of South Dakota, engages in a musical project that aims to raise attention to the necessity of saving the environment. In this specific case, his inspiration comes from the actions of Water Protectors nationwide. Water Music comprises three pieces that put the unfettered quality of his three-horn frontline quintet on display.

The nearly 18-minute “Black Snake” sonically addresses the Dakota Access Pipeline issue through humming and alarming noises mixed with conspicuous figures delivered openly. Encouraging unpredictability, the passages shift from one time signature to another (from seven to three to six), inspiring a relaxed conversation between saxophonists Mai Sugimoto and Artie Black, which is later interrupted by raucous horn screams. Interestingly, there’s a post-bop vibe that recalls some of Jackie McLean’s albums from the 1960’s. Brief unisons evoking the theme make the bridge between Sugimoto's individual statement and Massa's - and then comes the disciplined rhythmic gymnastics of drummer Isaiah Spencer. Ensuing a more cautious passage, the tune rebuilds its grooves to grow in intensity through windswept horns in turbulence.

After the free playing in its introductory section, “The Water Thief” develops into a medium-swing bounce led by Chicago-based bassist Anton Hatwich. Even being perfectly structured, the piece conveys an untethered feel throughout.

“Suite For Flint, MI” is composed of three distinct movements addressing the harmful contamination of the water by lead in Flint, Michigan. While the first movement employs reflective chamber tones and arpeggiated classical-like sequences, the second is informed by patriotic and nationalist themes, entering into a triple-rhythm meter that soon veers to free jazz elasticity. The third movement brings a primitive, rudimentary groove to the table, over which sax and trumpet intertwine with melodic effortlessness.

Roiled and smoldered with avant-garde and post-bop undercurrents, Water Music is modeled with activist ethos and considerably sparky playing.