Ben Perowsky: Ben Perowsky Trio

Glenn Astarita

Senior Contributor since 1997

Longtime contributor to AAJ and Downbeat, Jazz Review, EjazzNews, Radio DirectX.

Recent articles (1,629 total)

Published: September 1, 1999

The drummer for the strikingly original band “Lost Tribe” and frequently called upon session man steps out as a leader fronting a trio consisting of distinguished New York City-based musicians on the “live” Ben Perowsky Trio. Perowsky is a monster behind the kit and along with the talented reedman Chris Speed and excellent bassist Scott Colley, the Trio rip and roar through a few standards and originals. Some highlights are --- a down home bluesy version of Pink Floyd’s mega-hit, “Money”, Duke’s “Sentimental Mood” or tackling the classics as in Messiaen’s “Danse De La Fureur”. Perowsky expertly demonstrates his technical gifts on his composition titled, “El Destructo”. Here, Perowsky meshes complex Latin and African rhythms while maintaining the pulse and providing ample solo space for the fire-breathing sax/clarinet work of Chris Speed. Although, the “live” recording at New York’s Knitting Factory is a tad muddy, the Trio generate enough excitement to overcome these minor obstacles...... Throughout, the vibe is that of three world class musicians who decided to step away from their other commitments and have some serious late night fun while performing at the Knit.

Perowsky and co. turn up the juice on several occasions as the superfine bassist Scott Colley tends to direct traffic or alter the pace with several thought provoking bass solos.......Ben Perowsky is a powerhouse yet possesses style and substance. Here, Perowsky, Speed and Colley are at the top of their game. – A fine outing indeed...! * * * *

www.perowsky.com

Record Label: JazzKey Music
Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream