A Little Louder Now
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
The Toronto bassist and composer Lauren Falls sure does impress us with these 7 originals and Victor Youmans standard, where some of Canada’s finest musicians accompany her across the creative jazz affair.
“New View” opens the listen with Todd Pentney’s warm piano, before David French’s soulful tenor sax enters the reflective climate, and “A Little Louder Now” follows with Trevor Falls’ light drumming and the soulful sax being anchored by the strategic bass from Falls.
In the middle, “Disagree To Disagree” blends the hypnotic keys with the dreamy brass and soothing bass lines, while “TTB”, i.e. Ticking Time Bomb, is a more firm delivery, as a tense rhythm and unpredictable, spirited guitar from Trevor Giancola is appreciated.
“Labyrinth” and “I Want To Be Happy” exit the listen, where the former carries a cinematic and nearly sci-fi energy in its unique melodies, and the latter showcases Falls’ meticulous bass plucking alongside a bouncy, dance floor friendly swing that’s as charming as it is memorable.
This is the sophomore release as leader from Falls, and her growth as a musician and composer sure do make an impression thanks to these autobiographical tracks that will be sure to make anyone with an ear for modern jazz a fan.
Travels well with: Ernesto Cervini- Joy; Noam Lemish- Twelve