Terra
Corner Store, 2026
8/10
The drummer/composer Phil Haynes sure does put out a lot of music, but that’s not a problem seeing as how he’s one of the best in modern jazz. This time, he’s in a live setting for an hour with Ben Monder and Peyton Pleninger.
“Moonrise / Aurora / Starlit / Meteor” occupies the first 20 minutes, and it’s strong on ambience, as Monder’s mesmerizing guitar complements Pleninger’s rich sax bouts, and “Vision Quest / Three Visitors” follows with the rich wind and frisky guitar amid Haynes’ strategic drumming in a mysterious setting.
“Skylark” lands on the back half and illustrates a distinct cautiousness amid the trio’s cozy gestures, while “Borealis / Showers / Dreams / Dawn” exits with 15+ minutes of swirling free jazz exploration that unfolds with a haze of acrobatic drumming, soulful sax and cryptic guitar playing.
Simply improvisation at its finest, the atmospheric and ethereal interaction embraces tonality, texturing and even haunting bouts for yet another excellent release by Haynes.
Travels well with: Phil Haynes- Transition(s); Phil Haynes- Electric