L’abíme
Multiple Chord, 2021
8/10
An outfit that emerged from the Jonathan Turgeon Trio, L’abíme have been making quite an impression everywhere they go, and this strong debut certainly parallels the work of their previous incarnation, who gained two nominations for Jazz Album Of The Year.
“Requiem” begins this third album with graceful piano from Jonathan Turgeon, as Hugo Blouin’s carefully plucked bass enters the thick climate of bright brass and proficient drumming, and “Perdu dans les bois” follows with a soulful setting of brass and woodwinds interacting with much skill and cautiousness.
In the middle, “Le culte I” moves with a deep approach that’s as mysterious as it is mesmerizing, while “Le culte II” expands into a very adventurous mashing of jazz and chamber ideas that get busy in a controlled chaos sort of way with Alex Dodier’s sax prowess on display.
Near the end, “L’étang au crépuscule” is an intimate track of agile keys, bouncy bass and soothing woodwinds from Gabriel Genest, and the single version of “L’abíme” exits the listen with an infectious energy that’s anchored by Jean-Philippe Godbout’s inestimable drumming.
A very modern listen that includes classical, rock and jazz wrapped up in a rich tapestry of very well executed arrangements, this first album is so detailed, repeated listen yield new finds that you can never tire of.
Travels well with: Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra- Twisting Ways; CODE Quartet- Genealogy