In Situ
Self-Released, 2024
9/10
The violinist and composer Alexa Torres brings along Mario Wellmann, Josh Newburry and Jordan Proffer for this debut album that was penned in preparation for a one year journey to interview and collaborate with improvising violinists across Belgium, France, and Poland.
“Yes Or No” starts the listen wtih Torres’ soaring violin alongside Proffer’s agile drumming for the cultured beauty that flows meticulously, and “When The Wind Breaks The Chime” follows with much ambience, as Wellmann’s precise guitar complements the rich delivery.
“Along Came Betty” arrives in the middle and emits much intimacy via the sublime violin, though Newburry’s well timed bass won’t go unnoticed, either, while “Consolidation” benefits much from the cozy guitar for a very stylish and groove filled highlight.
The final track, “We See”, is a Thelonious Monk interpretation that’s playful, festive even, and illustrates a dynamic and charming interplay between the quartet.
A captivating record that sonically references the past and present, Torres and company make great use of traditional ideas, cultured bouts and musical idioms.
Travels well with: Jay Sanders- Evanescent; Nicki Adams/Michael Eaton- The Transcendental