This is pianist/composer John Funkhouser’s fourth release, and the Boston-based artist does some interesting things with his core trio of Greg Loughman/b and Mike Connors/dr along with a couple guests. He takes some standards such as “My Romance” and “House of the Rising Son,” stretches them out a bit, and gives them various moods and atmospheres. The former starts sensitively enough, but gets a bit more frisky and assertive at the end, while the latter features some foreboding keywork as well s Loughman’s bass work. Guitarist Phil Sargent joins in for a funky “The Deep” that has the leader in high drive, while Thelonious Monk’s “Little Rootie Tootie” changes themes and colors like a Middle Eastern Souk. One path is bright and clear and the next turn goes into mysterious shadows. Vocalist Aubrey delivers some lovely wordless effects on the skating “Still” that shows the sensitive side of Connor’s brushes and Funkhouser’s fingertips. Lots of thought behind each moment of this post bop session.
Jazsyzygy Records