Vibes On A Breath
OA2, 2023
8/10
The vibraphonist Ted Piltzecker makes quite an impression with this first large ensemble recording, where plenty of rhythm and melodies resides among the 11 songs that welcome Brad Goode, Paul McKee, John Gunther, Wil Swindler, Paul Romaine, Gonzalo Teppa, Judith Leclair and Javier Diaz.
The playful bass plucking of Teppa starts off the warm “If I Only Had A Brain”, as Piltzecker’s flowing vibes sure do impress us, and “Nature Boy” continues the elegance with Romaine’s sturdy drums amid the chilling atmosphere of dense brass and dreamy vibes.
The frisky “Stolen Moments” lands in the middle, and features Diaz’s lively percussion for the cultured presence that spotlights the saxs and Goode’s agile trumpet, while “Subconcious Lee” is quite animated thanks to the dynamic horns and, of course, Piltzecker’s vibe acrobatics.
Arriving near the end, the more intimate appeal of “Seven Steps To Heaven” then abruptly shifts into a dance floor ready jazz rocker, and “Bus” exits with Leclair’s well timed bassoon that adds much charm and dimension to the textured album highlight.
There’s 3 originals and 8 classics present, where Piltzecker and company sure do make for a timeless and exciting jazz affair.
Travels well with: John La Barbera Big Band- Grooveyard; Matt Otto- Umbra