Upturned Cup
New Amsterdam, 2026
9/10
The New York quartet, The Hands Free, brings the talents of James Moore, Caroline Shaw, Nathan Koci and Eleonore Oppenheim to these 8 songs that mash chamber music, jazz improvisation and folk music.
The title track opens with Shaw’s mesmerizing violin before Moore’s playful banjo enters the warm climate, and “Chrysalis” follows with Koci’s rich accordion amid the strong attention to atmosphere that’s heartfelt.
“On That Specific Pillow” and “Frost” land in the middle. The former makes great use of Oppenheim’s meticulous bass via the pretty and gentle interaction, while the latter embraces tonality amid the precise plucking dynamics.
Residing near the end, “Zender” blurs the instruments artistically and in a hazy fashion, and “First Train To Glasgow” exits with the dancing violin, firm guitar strumming, strategic bass and playful according making an indelible impression.
The Hands Free have been making music together for over a decade, and that chemistry is very apparent across these rhythmic, melodic and unpredictable tunes that are easy to admire and difficult to forget.
Travels well with: ~Nois- What Is ~Nois; Dorian Wood- Canto de Todes