Quadrivium
Rough Draft Audio, 2023
9/10
An esteemed UK jazz guitarist, Nick Fletcher recruits Anika Nilles, Caroline Bonnett, Dave Bainbridge and Tim Harries for these 11 progressive and fusion tracks.
“A Wave On The Ocean Floor Of Eternity” opens the listen with much attention to mood, as the spirited guitar from Fletcher radiates a shimmering warmth, and the driving “Overture To The Cosmos” follows with Nilles’ hard hitting drums guiding the bristling prog-rock.
Further along, “The Fifth Parallel” showcases a dynamic and melodic interplay that benefits much from Bainbridge’s fluid keys, while “The Helix” finds a dreamy place to reside thanks to Harries’ meticulous bass and Bonnett’s unpredictable keys.
Approaching the end, “The Journey To Varanasi” is populated by the dense rhythm section amid Fletcher’s intricate guitar progressions, and “Standing On The Edge Of Time” exits with rich guitar playing and a touch of ambience.
Fletcher is also well versed in classical sounds, and his immense skill and experience makes for a cosmic and textured display that’s soulful and creative.
Travels well with: AQ&F- 2nd Life; Kurt Michaels- Stones From The Garden