Book Of Days
Self-Released, 2021
8/10
A veteran composer and pianist, Joe LoCascio is well versed in many types of jazz, and this 18th album brings Woody Witt, Richard Mikel and Daniel Dufour on board for 11 originals of fluid jazz sensibilities.
“Fantomas” starts the listen with graceful keys and Witt’s bright sax making for a cautious and emotive version of jazz, and “Vergennes” follows with a quicker pace of tumbling drums from Dufour as the soulful brass guides a very energetic climate.
The middle tunes are some of the best, and include the sublime and introspective, piano focused “Brother”, while “Lighthouse” moves with a dynamic spirit, where Mikel’s proficient bass adds much to the textured landscape.
Deeper still, “Broken Angels” bring a bit of tension to the hypnotic delivery that’s even a tad dreamy, too, and “Vigil” exits the listen with the intricate keys, punchy drumming, mesmerizing bass and gripping sax making for the perfect finish to the meticulous effort.
There’s an undeniable chemistry between these 4, and with LoCascio’s creative and accomplished vision at the helm, there just isn’t a dull moment to be found on Book Of Days.
Travels well with: Aaron Bazzell- Aesthetic; Sergio- Pereira- Finesse