Pith
Out Of Your Head, 2023
8/10
The drummer and composer Tomas Fujiwara brings along his 7 Poets Trio, i.e. cellist Tomeka Reid and vibraphonist Patrician Brennan, for a dizzying and genre defying 6 tracks.
“Solace” gets the listen off to an atmospheric start, where Brennan’s playful vibes are met with Pith’s precise drumming, and “Swelter” follows with flowing drumming amid the radiant vibes that touches on avant-garde rock ideas.
At the midpoint, “Resolve” resides in a unique intimacy that allows the cozy vibes to shine, while “Josho” carries a charming, frisky appeal, where the crisp drums are met with strategically plucked cello from Reid. The final track, “Breath”, carries a free jazz demeanor that’s stylish, meticulous and infectious in its distinct energy.
An atypical effort that is both classical and jazz influenced, Fujiwara and company use both composed and improvised bursts for a modern, experimental and exciting record.
Travels well with: Jessica Pavone- Clamor; Curt Sydnor- Deep End Shallow