Synergy
Tweed Boulevard, 2023
8/10
The inimitable drummer Bobby Kapp finds himself in a septet, where Richard Sussman’s piano skills help make for plenty of post-bop fun.
The warm energy of “Tweed Boulevard” opens with Harvie S’ playfully plucked bass and Aaron Irwin’s animated clarinet emitting a timeless jazz climate, and “Infinite Mobility” follows with the cozy keys alongside Kapp’s agile drumming that cultivates a distinct melody.
The middle track belongs to “From My Heart”, as an indeed intimate demeanor unfolds with Zack Brock’s meticulous violin adding much beauty, while “Synergy” bops and shakes with a charming delivery from Abraham Burton’s animated sax.
“Whirling Dervish” and “Radioactive” exit the listen, where the former uses acrobatic keys and fluid drumming, and the latter is populated by vivid brass amid a dynamic and stylish rhythm section.
A listen that’s never short on creativity or solos, Kapp and company illuminate Sussman’s work with some exciting modern jazz.
Travels well with: Doug MacDonald Trio- Edwin Alley; Clifford Jordan- Drink Plenty Water