From What I Recall
OA2, 2025
9/10
The pianist Simona Premazzi and saxophonist Kyle Nasser come together for these 11 melodic, modern jazz tracks that also recruit Noah Garabedian and Jay Sawyer.
“Iacchus” opens and showcases Nasser’s glowing sax alongside Sawyer’s agile drumming in the rich climate, and “Back Seat” follows with a frisky mood, as Premazzi’s swift keys guide the unpredictable jazz delivery.
In the middle, the quick but memorable “Intro To Stalking” allows for the meticulous sax to radiate much warmth, while “Requiem For K.O.” uses Garabedian’s playful bass strategically in a cautious yet playful setting.
Close to the end, the album’s best, the title track, illuminates the quartet’s dynamic interaction with fluid and dizzying jazz, and "Scamander” exits with much emotion and harmonic songwriting to be appreciated.
A sophisticated body of work that borrows from classical music techniques, the 4 artists bring their inimitable talents to raw, timeless and tuneful jazz that will always be relevant.
Travels well with: Michael Waldrop- Native Son; Medler Sextet- River Paths