Glass Spheres
Summit, 2022
8/10
At just 24 years old, the bassist and composer Chris Mondak embraces the time honored traditions of jazz’s rich past across these 7 well thought out tracks, and he’s got Hunter Smith (sax), Gabe Feldman (piano), Lindon McCarty (guitar) and Chris Broomhead (drums) along with him for the occasion.
“Low” starts the listen with flowing sax and swift drumming as the agile keys guide the timeless jazz sensibilities, and “Oath Keeper” follows with the carefully plucked bass and meticulous guitar playing fueling the smooth melodies that swing with the best of them.
In the middle, “In Sleep” brings plenty of atmosphere into the free jazz exploration that can be bare and busy, while “Juicy Red” recruits a soulfulness to the brass amid charming drums and cozy keys that make for the album’s best. The album exits on the firm drumming and spirited guitar work of “Hats Off”, where plenty of rhythm enters a dynamic and glowing finish.
A listen that’s full of bebop, second line, avant-garde, swing and pop moments, fans of jazz, past and present, won’t be disappointed with this youngster’s inimitable talent.
Travels well with: Way North- New Dreams, Old Stories; Yannick Rieu Génération Quartet- Qui Qu’en Grogne