Ceremony
Jeru, 2023
9/10
An outfit consisting of the bassist Joe Policastro, Dave Miller on guitar and Mikel Avery behind the drum kit, this even split of originals and covers from a trio of unconventional jazz artists makes an inimitable impression.
The Joy Division/New Order classic, “Ceremony”, opens the listen with the playfully plucked strings and light drums maintaining the mesmerizing spirit of the original, and “Poioumena”, an original, follows with Miller’s radiant guitar guiding the stylish jazz demeanor.
In the middle, “Blue Bayou”, by Roy Orbison, allows Avery’s precise drums to shine in the dreamy demeanor, while “Brilliant Corners” has the trio emitting a dynamic chemistry via the firm drums, dense bass plucking and meticulous guitar of the Thelonius Monk piece.
The last two tracks are both quite memorable, too, where “Possible Music” carries a unique rhythm thanks to Miller’s guitar acrobatics and the chunky bass from Policastro, and Joao Bosco’s frisky “Bala Com Bala” finishes with the bouncy ideas and a shuffling energy that will certainly get your body moving.
A highly progressive and creative listen, the covers are executed like no one else has considered, and the originals demonstrate an immense talent from the trio. Really, though, the New Order interpretation is alone worth the price of admission.
Travels well with: Anat Cohen- Quartetinho; Charles Lloyd- Vanished Gardens