Moment Of Clarity
Summit, 2020
8/10
Paul Shaw has made quite an impression as a long time drummer, here he’s also the composer as he brings along an all star cast to help flesh out his debut as a leader.
“Heartland” starts the listen with guitars, drums and trumpet working together in a firm jazz setting with flowing melodies, and “Shapeshifter” continues the mood with Alex Sipiagin’s trumpet prowess on full display in the playful and rhythmic setting.
Elsewhere, “Mary Oliver” benefits greatly from its reserved nature and Gary Versace’s strategic piano, while “Peekaboo” spends over 9 minutes mesmerizing us with Shaw’s drum acrobatics, Versace’s bright keys and the strong dynamics between trumpet and guitar that takes nods to the blues.
Near the end, the title track makes mood the focus with its precise delivery and dreamy atmosphere, and “Showdown” exits the listen upbeat, dance friendly and with a glorious finish of timeless jazz fun.
A drummer since the age of 5, Shaw brings an incredible amount of skill and experience to this effort that brings him out from behind the drum kit in an innovative and fascinating execution.
Travels well with: Alberto Pibiri- Jazz Legacy; Al Gold- Al Gold’s Paradise