Ben Thomas Tango Project

Eternal Aporia

Origin, 2022

8/10

Listen to Eternal Aporia

The multi-instrumentalist and composer Ben Thomas has a lengthy and esteemed career in jazz sounds, and here he offers us another interest of his, tango music, where Eric Likkel, Steve Schermer, Gretchen Yanover, Brandon Vance and Jonathan Geer accompany him.

“Tangent 7” opens the listen with playful Thomas’ vibraphone alongside Yanover’s warm cello and Geer’s strategic keys in the upbeat climate, and “Safeguards” follows with a calmer approach of well timed bass and soothing clarinet as Thomas’ percussion really mesmerizes.

Further on, the frisky bandoneon of “Flights Without Air” helps emit a hypnotic quality, while “A Wistful Eschaton” flows with much beauty in its elegant demeanor. “Flowers Of Rage” then bounces and sways with a charming cinematic appeal.

Near the end, “The Space Between” is a bit tense as mood is manipulated with poise and creativity as Vance’s violin makes an impression, and “Something Ventured” exits the listen with no shortage of melody and dynamic interaction between the talented players.

Thomas has spent much time in Buenos Aires over the years, where he’s studied the art of tango, and he brings that experience and much skill to this lively and authentic affair.

Travels well with: Jared Hall- Seen On The Scene; Michael Waldrop- Triangularity