Onta
Calligram, 2025
9/10
The Scottish drummer Alyn Cosker is joined by a large cast for this love letter to his hometown of Ayr, where plenty of diverse ideas enter the jazz spirited sounds.
The title track leads with Cosker’s skilled drums and soothing vocals alongside Miro Herak’s pretty vibes and Jim Cosker’s fluid keys for the dreamy landscape, and “Lullapalew” follows with Ewen Vernal’s strategic bass and Paul Towndrow’s well timed whistle via the uniquely rhythmic delivery.
“Cassillis” and “Downtown AYR” land in the middle. The former makes great use of Juliette Lemoine’s mature cello amid the sublime intimacy, while the latter showcases Cosker’s scrappy drumming and Rachel Lightbody’s expressive singing for the groove filled highlight.
“Lárach do Thacaidean” exits, and allows for Karen Matheson’s vocal acrobatics to shine alongside Davie Dunsmuir’s playful guitar licks thanks to a very playful Gaelic song.
An effort that doesn’t shy away from his Scottish roots, there’s also funk, rock and Celtic nods to be appreciated in between the rhythm. melodies and solos.
Travels well with: Chris Varga- Breathe; Jarod Bufe- Brighter Days