Pyrography
Ears & Eyes, 2025
8/10
The inimitable pianist Paul Hecht is aligned with Ben Dillinger, Gustavo Cortinas and James Davis for these 11 originals that are both composed and improvised jazz.
The warm spirit of “He Made Up His Mind” leads with Davis’ rich trumpet alongside the cozy keys, and “Waltz For Franny” follows with a soft intimacy, where the expressive keys are met with Dillinger’s gentle bass.
In the middle, “Femme R” uses dense bass plucking and upbeat drumming via the frisky mood, while “Idler” bops and shakes with an infectious energy thanks to the firm keys and playful bass and drums.
Close to the end, the cinematic and uniquely dreamy “Rejoice” comes with mystery and grace, and “Dasha” exits with a crisp and dynamic interaction, where the quartet each radiate their own strengths in a precise and timeless jazz climate.
A fascinating listen that balances intricate with basic ideas, there’s much beauty and sophistication to be enjoyed from Hecht and his esteemed company.
Travels well with: Matt Booth- Sunprints; Esthesis Quartet- Time Zones