Here are two recent releases by threesomes.
The team of Teri Parker and Simeon Abbott play just about anything with keys, ranging from piano, Rhodes, Hammond B-3, samplers and even a Wurlitzer and beyond, and bring in some rhythm in the form of Mark Segger for his collection of originals. The focus here is on songs and musical journeys, with lots of 80s synthesizer sounds on ”Dance Party” and the New Age-ish “Circus Piece.” The most jazzy tune is the driving title track, while some delicate and almost childlike themes are heard on “Elk Crossing” and “Waterfalls and Unicorns.” Music that is gentle on your mind.
On the other side of town, pianist Alex Mercado joins together with heavyweights Scott Colley/b ;and Antonio Sanchez/dr for a sparks flying collection of originals. He shows his dynamism and ability to handle sharp curves on the assertive “Wise” and the angular bopper “Nothing Changes.” The interplay between all three are impressively on overdrive for “What Lays Beyond,” but can also display sensitivity as they simmer along on “Flowing.” Mercado himself shows touches of romance and classicism as he forays with Colley on “Nona.” Would love to see this team in LA for a couple weeks!