Froggy’s Demise
Adhyâropa, 2025
8/10
A truly unclassifiable meshing of classical, jazz, bluegrass and rock, the quartet known as Ezra make for a very atypical and exciting version of chamber sounds with these 10 tracks.
“Waldeinsamkeit” leads with Max Allard’s warm banjo that creates both intimacy and melody, and the title track follows with a more firm approach, as Jacob Jolliff’s swift mandolin playing is met with Craig Butterfield’s well timed bass lines.
“Too Late” occupies the middle spot and showcases playful string interaction via the rich dynamics, while “Narny” offers emotion and grace thanks to the heartfelt songwriting that’s both busy and calm.
“Golden Hill” and “Hannigan’s Hollow” exit the record. The former radiates a soft and mesmerizing display of cozy interaction, and the latter makes great use of Jesse Jones’s guitar that suits the banjo, mandolin and bass with both precision and exploration.
A rhythmic effort that uses jazz, folk and roots nods, the abrupt harmonic changes and rare chemistry between the players ensures a listening experience you’ll want to revisit.
Travels well with: Tal Yahalom- Mirror Image; Scroggins + Rose- Speranza