Time Zones
Ears And Eyes, 2023
8/10
Although Elsa Nilsson, Dawn Clement, Ema Dayhuff and Tina Raymond all live in different parts of the country, as Esthesis Quartet they come together for 7 improvised originals here, where their creativeness and energetic performances are much appreciated.
“Blue Light” starts the listen with Dayhuff’s playful bass plucking, as the calm drumming from Raymond enters a warm, free jazz climate, and “Brush Fire” follows with intimate piano from Clement that sets the mood for the reflective tone that builds into a busy, thick display.
In the middle, Nilsson’s dreamy flute populates the upbeat and melodic “Hollywood”, while “Serial” rumbles in mysterious ways, where the agile flute and firm drums won’t go unnoticed or unappreciated.
The album exits on the acrobatic bass lines of “Getting Through”, where quick flute, even quicker drums and animated keys make this the best selection present.
A superb sophomore album that’s never short on spontaneity, the 4 artists bring a wealth of talent and exploration, and in the area of contemporary improvisation, it just doesn’t get much better than this.
Travels well with: Ben Zucker’s Fifth Season- Semiterritory; Mike Allemana- Vonology