Piano Quartets
Ravello, 2020
8/10
The composer and guitarist Jonathan Badger takes a firm leap into classical sounds here, as the quick EP recruits piano and saxophone amid electronics from Badger and are delivered with a very innovative execution.
“Piano Quartet No. 1” starts the listen soft and warm with graceful keys from Joshua Espinoza, as a trio of saxophones and electronics from Badger enter the very playful climate, and “Piano Quartets No. 2” follows with much atmosphere as the electronics place an ominous quality amid Rose Hammer Burt, Tiffany Defoe and Jarrett Gilgore’s cautious brass.
The final tune enlists the same line up, and exits with a busy, adventurous display of quivering song craft where each instrument shines in its own light and yet together as a cohesive unit that welcomes rock and jazz sensibilities, too.
Though he’s most known for his earlier post-rock and neo-baroque chamber music, this very original excursion will certainly gain and keep the attention of anyone willing to take the trip.
Travels well with: Mind & Machine: Organic And Electronic Words- Volume Three; Bill Whitley- Then Elephant Speaks