TRIOLOGY

THE SLOW ROAD

Cellar Music

Miles Black, piano; Bill Coon, guitar; Jodi Proznick, bass; Scott Hamilton, tenor saxophone.

Triology is a supergroup of three award winning Canadian Jazz musicians. They have added the satin smooth tenor saxophone of Scott Hamilton to this recording, whose style reminds me of the unforgettable silkiness of Stan Getz on saxophone.

The Triology group, (plus one) opens with a tune by bassist Jodi Proznick called “Luna.”  It’s a beautiful composition that leaves open space for each musician to step forward and solo. It’s a jazz waltz with a lovely, catchy melody and features their special guest, Scott Hamilton on tenor saxophone.

I enjoyed their arrangement of the Carlos Jobim tune, “Luiza” played as a sultry ballad without the warm Brazilian rhythms. This unusual arrangement allows us to clearly hear Jobim’s spectacular melody and enjoy those unforgettable intervals.  Hamilton’s tenor sax caresses our ears as he emotionally delivers Jobim’s melody. When Bill Coon steps forward on his guitar to sing the song, I am intrigued by his tenderness.

Speaking of Coon, he has composed a tune called “Slow Road” that shuffles along and makes me snap my fingers to their laid-back rhythm. The song is manipulated by the Proznick double bass walking hand-in-hand with Coon’s rhythm guitar.  I don’t miss the drums at all.  When Coon takes his guitar solo, Miles Black supplies the rhythm on piano with a little help from Jode’s bass.  Black has such a light touch on the piano keys, when he solos he makes each note a statement. Each chord is clearly executed. Black tickles the upper register, like a mother tickles her baby’s cheek.

This ensemble covers a handful of standard jazz songs like Randy Weston’s “Hi Fly” and Charlie Parker’s “Moose the Mooche.”  Their crystal-clear sound and expert musicianship creates a pleasant listen.

Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil

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