Ron Oswanski takes the Hammond B3 in some intriguing directions on this multi-faceted release. Also on piano and accordion, he brings together s team of ClarencePenn-Ian Froman/dr, Jay Azzolina-John Abercrombie/g, John Patitucci/b and Tim Ries/ts-ss for a dozen originals that range from bluesy bop (“Standard Tile”) to aggressively charged material (“White Meadow”). A gentle and lyrical “Solo Por Undia” has a gentle nasal wheeze from Oswanski’s squeeze box, while Abercrombie’s guitar cruises like a V8 on “Kayak.” Ries’ soprano is celebratory on a festive “Ukrania Polka” that will make you want to break a few glasses on the floor, while “Milk of the Moon” is as tender as a newborn kitten. As with all guys with the Hammond, late night moods are never far away, and the rhythm team here keeps the music rich and satisfying.
Tames Records
www.palmetto-records.com