Neset, Marius: Circle of Chimes

Marius Neset is quickly becoming one of the finest saxophone players in Europe. He has a few albums under his belt with his latest titled Circle of Chimes released in 2017. He has been with the ACT label for a few years now slowly building up his discography. On his new platter he is joined by:

Lionel Loueke (guitar, vocals)
Andreas Brantelid (cello)
Ingrid Neset (flute, piccolo, alto flute)
Ivo Neame (piano)
Jim Hart (vibraphone, marimba, percussion)
Petter Eldh (double bass)
Anton Eger (drums, percussion)

I probably sound like a broken record but the number of quality jazz releases crossing my desk has never been higher, so much so I have been having a hard time keeping up. The high quality continues with Circle of Chimes.

Neset has crafted ten tracks mostly in the chamber jazz category with other elements such as world music appearing ever so often. Two of my favourite tracks can be found right at the start. The album opening “Satellite� begins with a symphony of bells. Other instruments gradually join in as the music escalates with more intense drums and cello. Breathy wisps of saxophone mark the beginning of the uplifting groove. Neset is a wonderful player, very fluid and dynamic with a great tone. The sax paired with Brantelid’s cello sounds especially pleasing. There are more intense moments as the sax soars, then eases down as the music drifts into a softer soundscape with gentle piano and somber cello. This is followed by “Star�, the album’s longest track at just over twelve minutes. Here the flute and piccolo shine in what is an exceptionally creative piece. Stellar sax lines and world elements combine to take the listener down a twisting/turning road of imaginative ensemble play. Rest assured, the following eight tracks are sure to satisfy your jazz cravings.

Another superb production courtesy of ACT Music.

Track Listing:
1. Satellite
2. Star
3. A New Resolution
4. Introduction to Prague’s Ballet
5. Prague’s Ballet
6. Life Goes On
7. Sirens of Cologne
8. The Silent Room
9. 1994
10. Eclipse

Added: July 30th 2018
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Artist's Official Site
Hits: 898
Language: english

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