Prepare to embark on a captivating journey through the world of jazz with Iain Ballamy's extraordinary project, Riversphere Vol 1. This album is a testament to the enduring legacy of a visionary saxophonist who has left an indelible mark on the UK jazz scene for four decades.
The Maverick's Return
Iain Ballamy, a name that might not ring a bell for everyone, but for those in the know, he's a true jazz legend. And here's the intriguing part: he's back with a bang, bringing together a diverse group of talented musicians for an album that defies genre boundaries.
But here's where it gets controversial... Ballamy's journey began in the 1980s, a time when jazz was undergoing a revolution. He, along with pianist Django Bates, were the mavericks of their generation, pushing the boundaries of what jazz could be. They blended classic jazz traditions with a mischievous twist, creating something uniquely European and sparky.
And this is the part most people miss... Ballamy and Bates were part of a gifted UK generation that shaped the jazz landscape of the 80s and 90s. Their most influential project, the revolutionary orchestra Loose Tubes, was a melting pot of genres, from swing to vaudeville, improv to avant-rock. It was a movement that brought people together, quite literally dancing in the streets.
Riversphere: A Musical River
Riversphere is a masterpiece that draws inspiration from the natural world. Ballamy likens the interweaving of rivers to the seamless flow of music between genres, musicians, and the blurred lines of composition and improvisation. It's a concept album that explores the beauty of musical collaboration.
At the forefront of this musical river is Ballamy's exquisite saxophone, joined by an A-list quartet. Rob Luft, with his atmospheric guitar reminiscent of Bill Frisell, provides the perfect backdrop. Conor Chaplin on bass and Corrie Dick on drums lay down a solid foundation, while Laura Jurd and Charlie Ballamy (Iain's talented son) add their trumpet magic to three tracks, including the harmonically exquisite finale, "As Time Passes."
The album opens with "Harmonique," a folksy number that transitions into raw, bending notes. "Unresolved" takes us on a journey with its delicate long tones and softly shifting drum patterns. And then there's the dreamy "Strange Meeting," where Frisell's influence is evident in the floating tenor exhalations and guitar peals.
But it's not just about the music. Riversphere is a testament to the power of collaboration and the passing of the torch. Ballamy's son, Charlie, is a promising young musician, and the inclusion of Laura Jurd, a renowned trumpeter, adds a layer of empathy and experience to the project.
A Preview of What's to Come
Volume 2 of Riversphere is already in the works, and it's an exciting prospect. If Vol 1 is any indication, we can expect more genre-bending, harmonious improv from Ballamy and his talented crew.
Also out this month, we have some other jazz gems to explore. Craig Taborn, Henry Threadgill, and Ambrose Akinmusire join forces with Thomas Morgan on "Around You Is a Forest," a unique collaboration that blends jazz with the sounds of lutes, harps, and zithers. Tom Ollendorff's "Where in the World" showcases his creative guitar work with the legendary Aaron Parks on piano. And for those who appreciate the late great John Taylor, "Tramonto" is a live recording of his iconic 2002 trio, a must-listen for any jazz enthusiast.
So, what do you think? Is Riversphere Vol 1 a masterpiece that lives up to its legacy? And what about the other releases this month? Let's spark a conversation in the comments and share our thoughts on these incredible jazz journeys!
