Le Banquet
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
A debut that illustrates this Canadian outfits ability to improvise, these 8 originals from Longtoe might be steeped in jazz, but there’s plenty of diversity present alongside the hard bop and swing tunes.
“Too Bad Toubab” opens the listen with Vincent Dessureault’s playful bass, as bright brass and Olivier Salazar’s warm keys make for a cozy and timeless jazz setting, and “Tic Tac Toe” follows with a lively energy that benefits much from Nicolas Lanctôt’s spirited guitar and Patrice Luneau’s very agile alto sax prowess.
“Nuit Blanche” occupies the middle spot and focuses on the radiant horns amid the meticulous rhythm section, while “My Little Bird” touches on reggae with its strong attention to rhythm and Gabriel Thibault’s glowing keys.
Close to the end, “Itchy” emits a striking intimacy that’s cautious and hearfelt, and “La Téle en I’Air” exits with a sublime dreaminess that possesses much beauty and grace.
An excellent first outing, Longtoe are truly made up of some of Montreal’s best musicians, and their unique and exciting version of jazz makes 8 songs just not enough. Hopefully more is on the horizon soon.
Travels well with: Avi Granite- In Good Hands; Jacob Chung- Epistle