Sueños Paralelos
Self-Released, 2023
8/10
A Swiss composer, violinist and singer, Laura Schuler brings along Hans-Peter Pfammatter (synth), Lionel Friedli (drums), and the New York resident Tony Malaby (tenor sax) for these 6 very unique songs that revolve around jazz, but certainly stray pretty far from the genre, too.
“When Everything Fall Into Place” opens the listen with a distinct energy, where wordless singing, rhythmic drum patterns and the violin and sax interacting with much creativity makes an impression, and “Prospect Park” follows with a rare intimacy that uses the sax soulfully amid glowing keys and frisky drums.
“Easy” and “Feed Your Power” occupy the middle spot, where the former has the strings and brass working together before splintering off with each on its own melodic path, and the latter emits a charming dreaminess that’s a big jagged yet still very soothing.
The final track, “Baby It’s Freejazz”, spends 10+ minutes mesmerizing us with its gentle landscape that bursts into free jazz exploration thanks to the playfully plucked bass, firm string manipulation, agile drumming and bright sax prowess.
A complex affair that’s inspired by the hustle and bustle of New York City, you’ll notice prog-rock and classical moments blended into this often busy idea of jazz.
Travels well with: Luumu- Elephant Love Song; Kosmos Trio- Brev til en ven