Gifts
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
The guitarist and composer Aaron Stroessner brings along Kevin Lloyd (Hammond, Wurlitzer, accordion), Andrew Mell (bass) and Andrew Wray (drums) for these very well executed and timeless 8 jazz originals.
“Be Still” opens the listen and is anything but, as radiant guitar and soft drumming make for a bare but rich tone that later on welcomes well timed organ, and “Wonder” follows with the strategic rhythm section complementing Stroessner’s meticulous guitar playing.
In the middle, “Lost” showcases dynamic textures that are quite complicated but easily enjoyable, while “Quarter Blues” shuffles with a frisky pace that benefits from charming organ, drumming acrobatics and much energy.
“V.A.D.”, the best track present, arrives near the end emits a busy and melodic execution of progressive modern jazz, and “Wild West” exits the listen and moves cautiously and precisely amid the intimacy that allows each players’ strengths to shine.
Stroessner has an impressive resume that includes being a professor of music at several schools, and along with his esteemed band he presents a very flexible and fluid listen that fans of contemporary jazz will be enamored with.
Travels well with: Dmitri Matheny- Cascadia; Albare & Co.- Freedom