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Prysm: Second Rhythm

By Jim Santella
July 1, 1999
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From France, the modern mainstream piano trio of drummer Benjamin Henocq, bassist Christophe Wallemme and pianist Pierre de Bethmann sparks excitement. At times lively and at times somber, the trio combines a love of straight-ahead jazz with lush harmonies and a variety of enthusiastic rhythms.

Bassist Wallemme begins "Extension" with an ostinato that serves to set the desired mood. It’s a scene of suspense and intrigue. Henocq’s "Suspended Time" sings out in a lyrical manner without any rhythm. "The Stonecutter" is slow, deliberate, and peaceful. "Secret World" offers a change-up that includes syncopated Latin rhythm, swinging piano, and a variety of percussion sounds. Wallemme’s dreamy "Eliot" finds all three sharing in an improvised tone poem. Both "Tao of Chloe" and "The Way" include portions where the piano and bass lay down riffs during which the drummer steps into the spotlight. Prysm is right out of the modern jazz mainstream, and while their session contains no strikingly familiar melodies, the compositions offer pleasant, well-worn acoustic vibrations.

Track Listing

The Way; The Stone Cutter; Temps Dense; Come

Personnel

Prysm

Pierre de Bethmann- piano; Christophe Wallemme- bass; Benjamin Henocq- drums, percussion.

Album information

Title: Second Rhythm | Year Released: 1999 | Record Label: Blue Note Records

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