Bassist Arlid Anderson brings together Paolo Vinaccia/dr and Tommy Smith/ts for some stripped down trio work. There is a duo between Smith and Vinaccia on some free improvisation on third world instruments on “Raijin’” but for the rest of the time, pieces like Bacharach’s “Alfie” reflects a wise use of space, tone and trialogue. Anderson’s bass is thick, sonoric and rich and can be used as either a lead instrument or a foundation for rhythm and melody as on “Reparate” and the rich “Eight and More.” Smith’s tenor is strong yet not overbearing, which can be a temptation in a setting like this. Instead you get music that is Quiet yet attention-getting; this trio knows how to work with sounds as well as space.
ECM Records