Label: Shifting Paradigm Records, 2026
Personnel - Dustin Laurenzi: tenor saxophone; Katie Ernst: bass, voice; Andrew Green: drums, percussion.
Twin Talk, the Chicago-based saxophone-bass-drums trio of Dustin Laurenzi, Kate Ernst, and Andrew Green, delves into a charismatic musical exploration that is not too soft and not too aggressive on their fourth album, Delights, the second on the Minneapolis-based, modern jazz-focused label Shifting Paradigm. The album comprises ten stylish compositions, with Laurenzi assuming most of the compositional duties.
Penned by the saxophonist, “Red Cent” offers bursts of jagged tenor and thunderous drums. The harmonic carpet, initially texturized by a pulsating arco bass and immersive drumming, makes a detour into a sort of punk-metal vibe dipped in a nervy backbone. Also by Laurenzi, “Heavy Nice” sinks into abundant confidence, denoting rhythmic acuity and melodic canniness. As a volatile, shape-shifting trickster, the trio navigates staccato-driven avenues and generates a sort of Afro-centric dance propelled by an irregular, festive groove.
Ernst’s “Northwest” slowly burns with passion in a 4/4 progression that is periodically interrupted by a compelling 17-beat cycle passage. As on that piece, the bassist uses her voice on her “Shadow Kid”, a spiritual, mantric shout, and makes her instrument sing on Laurenzi’s “Super Official”, which almost acquires a steady reggae feel.
The energy doesn’t wane on pieces like “Both And”, engraved with a dynamic tenor solo (Laurenzi’s chops sharpened over the rhythm section’s harmonic bed) and alternating tempos with nuance and effortless grace. It ends with a certain playfulness.
While “Teel” takes the form of a beautiful meditation, “Fifths” explores synchronism, counterpoint, and groove with fluency and refinement.
Taking inspiration from various artistic corners, Twin Talk tightly balances dynamics in a way that is deceptively simple. It’s a non-stiff, good-sounding, and full-bodied saxophone trio with broad ideas.
Favorite Tracks:
01 - Red Cent ► 02 - Heavy Nice ► 10 - Shadow Kid