Three recent releases by 577 Records deliver spontaneity on the half shell.
Bariton saxist Dave Sewelson teams with trombonist Steve Swell, bassist William Parker and drummer Marvin Bugalu Smith for three free and fervent originals. A loose Mingusy pulse is generated with shrieks and bass soloing on “Memories” with some rapid fire drumming introducing the traffic jam of “Dreams.” Brass valve sounds and swooshes team with crying reeds along with an arm wrestling match of drums and bass on the closing “Reflections.” Was there a policeman to direct traffic?
Massimo Magee plays tenor, alto and soprano sax on two long and one short improvisations with drummer Tony Irving. Magee’s tone is warm on the legato “Vitriol” before getting heated and declaratory. Harmonic shrieks on alto and soprano team up with hard driving sticks and pings on “Well of Souls” with the 25 minute “The Third Oraculum” including an avalanche of percussion with flute and tenor tumbling over the quaking earth. Stand back and wear a pit helmet.
Nines songs by pianist Matthew Putman, clarinetist Patrick Holmes and Daniel Carter on reeds, flute, and trumpet make for a mix of dreamy and reflective atmospheres. Two clarinets get a bit Klezmeric on “Glue You” with pretty tones on a playful “Book About Waves”. Muted trumpet and licorice stick create impressionistic imprints on “Deep Breath Then Carry On” and the pastoral
Waaar-day” with rich piano on “Here From Elsewhere” and “Parallel Perceptions.” Pastel sounds.