Kris Davis: Lifespan

A Canadian who moved to New York in 2001, Davis has been gradually insinuating herself into the downtown music scene and has, for this release, surrounded herself with a fine group of established players. Saxophonist Tony Malaby, who has played with artists including Joey DeFrancesco, Mario Pavone and Marty Erlich, has a lyrical approach that is just left-of-centre enough to keep things interesting on the oblique "Jo-ann." Trumpeter Russ Johnson, most recently heard on violinist Jenny Scheinman's stunning Shalagaster , delivers a sinuous solo on "Even Eivind."

Bassist Eivind Opsvik, who has worked with Carla Bley, Marc Copland and Craig Taborn, is a progressive player who carefully balances lyrical invention with tighter ensemble work. Reed player Jason Rigby and drummer Jeff Davis round out the group, with Davis delivering a rhythmically charged solo over Opsvik's ostinato on "Nein."

Davis has a writing style that has already, at this early stage, developed into a unique sound. Her material would fit comfortably within an ECM context; while there is intensity to be found, the overall approach is more inward-looking. While not averse to more expressionist leanings as evidenced on the modal workout "Endless," her compositions are more inclined towards the impressionism of "Argyha" and "Lifespan." With the power of a sextet at her disposal, she is also capable of chamber-like delicacy on "Travel Far."

Her work leans more to a European approach; still, she manages to display her roots in the American tradition on "The Epic." Her playing shows the influence of Mal Waldron, but is less overtly rhythmical; she demonstrates a free style that owes something to Marilyn Crispell, but is lighter, more delicate; there is also a romantic side to her playing that differentiates her from these sources.

With a distinctive left-leaning compositional and playing style, Kris Davis is establishing herself as an artist of note. Lifespan is an auspicious debut that also shows off her abilities as a bandleader; by putting the music first she demonstrates a remarkable musical maturity that can only bode well for the future.

Visit Kris Davis and Fresh Sound New Talent Records on the web.