Two Takes Vol. 1
Anzic, 2022
8/10
The exceptional drummer Jared Schonig finds himself in the company of Marquis Hill (trumpet), Godwin Louis (alto sax), Luis Perdomo (piano, Rhodes) and Matt Clohesy (acoustic bass) for this first stab as bandleader that features all original compositions.
“White Out” opens the listen with acrobatic drumming and lively brass, as a flowing rhythm and lively energy populates the adventurous jazz spirit, and “Climb” follows with a calmer pace of intimate keys and soulful horns.
Halfway through, “Eight Twenty” dances with fluid melodies, crisp drums and soothing sax prowess, while “Tig Mack” finds a very emotive place to reside with its cautious manipulation of space and mood.
Close to the end, “Sabotage”, the best track, is a busy and festive rocker that showcases the bright brass, meticulous drumming and precise bass, and “Gibbs St.” exits with Schonig’s inimitable drumming skills front and center amid the dynamic keys and strong brass interaction.
Schonig tosses in a 3 drum interludes across the listen, which only illuminates his playing that much more, and together with his excellent band he makes for a first rate, modern jazz affair.
Travels well with: Jared Schonig- Two Takes Vol. 2; Troy Roberts- Nu-Jive: Nations United