Iridescence
Self-Released, 2019
8/10
A young talent in the jazz scene, Matthew Snow brings his strong bass prowess and composing skills to the 8 originals here, as the sextet flesh out a variety of sounds from hard bop to balladry.
“Amber Glow” starts the listen with bright alto saxophone, spirited trombone and frisky percussion on the jazz flavored fun, and “Blitz” continues that theme with a quick, shuffling pace of dynamic chemistry between the players on hand.
Further along, “Brood” brings the setting to a warm, contemplative tone, while “Jealousy” offers some of the best percussion alongside careful brass work that even gets funky.
Near the end, “The Change Agent” will have you lacing up your dancing shows with its swift tempo and infectious melodies, and “Venus” ends the listen soulful and trombone heavy on a cautious and thoughtful exit.
Now 7 years into his career in New York City jazz, Snow appears determined to make a name for himself, and Iridescence is certainly a step in the right direction with its fluent and memorable modern jazz.
Travels well with: Roger Kellaway- The Many Open Minds Of Roger Kellaway; Fostina Dixon- Vertical Alignment