Counterpoint
Laika, 2023
8/10
Martin Wind’s double bass, Jim McNeely’s piano and Ed Neumeister’s trombone come together for these 10 cautious and rich jazz tracks.
“Hiatus” begins the listen with the warm keys and soulful brass making for much swingin’ fun, and “Remember October 13th” follows with Wind and Neumeister each manipulating their instruments in distinct ways before some charming blues nods enter.
Halfway through, “Blame It On My Youth” is a skilled interpretation that uses the double bass strategically alongside the muted trombone, while the bright “Gmunden” is an improvised and cinematic moment of unpredictable musicianship.
“Extra Credit” and “In The Wee Small Hours Of The Morning” exit the listen, where the former meshes the keys and horn in adventurous and timeless jazz oriented ways, and the latter enters dreamy territory thanks to the stirring bass and intimate piano.
A body of work that took place on accident when Wind booked studio time with another musician for a project he ended up passing on, McNeely was still on board for making some music, and the addition of Neumeister certainly only adds more creativity and timelessness to the affair.
Travels well with: Bruce Barth Trio- Dedication; Ben Wolfe- Unjust