As a response to his intriguing previous excursion (Avenging Angel) that emphasized solo performing, pianist Craig Taborn brings together a trio for a collection of complex, sophisticated and intelligent originals. Together with Thomas Morgan/b and Gerald Cleaver/dr, Taborn uses the contrast of open spaces and intricate digital dexterity on pieces such as “Beat the Ground” or “Cracking Hearts” that reveal an alarming control of timing and technique. The question that has to be asked on a session like this, however, is “when does classical music end and jazz start?” as much of the material here gives more of an impression of scholastic exercises than swing, the blues and improvisation. Wonderful and impressive music, but what is he trying to say?
ECM Records