One
Calligram, 2023
9/10
The assembly of Paul Towndrow, Chad McCullough, Miro Herak, Conor Murray and Alyn Cosker, as Atlantic Road Trip the quintet make for a very rich debut.
“The Other Fulton Street” opens the listen with Herak’s soothing vibraphone alongside Cosker’s skilled drumming populating the atmospheric start that brings in Towndrow’s lively sax, and “Nightingale Island” follows with McCullough’s well timed trumpet mixing with the frisky drums via much melody.
Halfway through, “Auburn” is an intimate moment of beauty and grace thanks to the soulful brass, while “Cacuvela” radiates a distinct energy thanks to the lively vibes and Murray’s strategic double bass prowess.
The last 2 tracks don’t disappoint either, where the bouncy and shuffling demeanor of “Upside Down is the album’s best, and “Dreams Of Matka” exits with all the player’s respective talents present and appreciated for the cozy and unpredictable jazz flavor.
A listen with an international presence, Herak’s Slovakian heritage and Towndrow and Cosker’s Scottish roots, plus Murray’s Irish background, complement McCullough’s Chicago address with a nice balance of worldly jazz sensibilities.
Travels well with: Dave Bayles Trio- Live At The Uptowner; Scott Hesse Trio- Intentions