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Solemn Moments

Christopher Lucas Wilson

Label: Self Produced
Released: 2023
Views: 654

Tracks

Solemn Moments; We See; Misnomer; Una Pa' Rosita; A Familiar Feeling (Benny's Beat); Manya De Carnaval; La Media Vuelta; Nocturne In Eb Major

Personnel

Album Description

LINER NOTES: 4 December 2022 In an ever-evolving industry of modern culture, music serves to remind us of the expansive canvas of human connections. For it is in these very moments that we not only can feel a range of emotions, but we can bear witness to a yearning, nay a desire to be free. We are made new again these moments. In particular, Solemn Moments brings into focus that deeply human brooding, that genuine spirituality of question and seeking and this trio is no less an example of what happens when music touches the soul. Written during the course of the global pandemic when the world seemed to shut down, Chicago-based pianist explores the complexity of emotions felt during this time. Deeply personal and moving, Wilson moves us from pain to hopeful optimism. Joined by a phenomenal, capable rhythm section, bassist Noah Jackson and Jesse Kamer bring together a palette of 4 original compositions and 5 new arrangements brilliantly displaying a range of emotions that speak well of the human experience. The title track opens with a meditative, almost somber mood, reflective of the period in which it was written. The trio weaves together a rich tapestry of harmonic interplay. Wilson’s fascinating touch on the piano is evident by his swinging, rhythmic beauty. As one continues to listen, the swing rises and captures the resilient nature of those who have endured such perilous times. The blues is what happens when tragedy occurs, but swing is how we get back up and live! "We See" is a composition by bebop pioneer Thelonious Monk. The impact of Monk’s technique and organic sound is heard as Wilson evokes an almost transcendent feeling. The trio’s rendition of this tune sparks the imagination. Wilson also credits this tune to his university piano professor Rick Roe, whose own guidance has deeply enriched Wilson’s journey. These influences combine to show Wilson’s own melodic inventiveness throughout this piece. In "Misnomer" one can hear the blues idiom rise and fall, cascading with a medium tempo feeling. The trio lays down the groove as Wilson builds with intensity throughout this piece. Jackson’s bassline stroll supports the pianist’s almost magical soloing. This tune comes alive in the drummer’s solo as well. Its melody that is sure to keep the listener engaged. In the ballad "Una Pa’ Rosita," the trio takes us on a journey. This piece was inspired during a stay-at-home order when Wilson’s child observed the transition of a caterpillar to a butterfly. Jackson’s remarkable solo draws us closer still, to a moment that life indeed is elegant even in the midst of pain, speaking to us where words fail. We feel those moments at times, but never giving up. "A Familiar Feeling (Benny’s Beat)" is shamelessly and unapologetic bluesy, like a lover swaying those hips on a Saturday night, ‘cause the feelin’ is right….and babe if you don’t grab me while the night is young, this love won’t stay forever. Down-home folk having a good time and laughing the night away. It’s sassy!!! Just plain ole’ feel good music. "Mañha de Carnaval" is a Brazilian tune. With many on-the-spot arrangements from this trio, this one was also developed on the bandstand. It shows the trio’s melodic inventiveness, as one is reminded of a calypo-like dirge. Each band member responds to each other with ease. Beginning slow and whimsical, melancholy loneliness that suddenly becomes open and playful. "La Media Vuelta" is a solo piano piece. It is a very famous Mexican ranchera, written by the legendary Mexican musician, Jose Alfredo Jimenez. The subtle approach is affectionate, joyous, tender and slips into a classic jazz ballad. While traveling in Mexico, the land made a deep impact upon his view of the world as Wilson fell in love with this artist’s music. With this tune, Wilson is reminded of the moments he shared with family and friends in Northern Mexico and Southern California. "Nocturne in Eb Major" is a familiar classical piece written in 1882 by Chopin. This tune is a moment that is reminiscent of Wilson’s children's bedtime routines. It displays a medium tempo swing feel, supported by Kramer’s brush strokes that are fanciful and brilliant. Solemn Moments captures the rare beauty that we often find in a trio setting. While difficult moments speak to life’s changing ways, we are made new by music that enriches the human experience. This album takes us on a journey through complex emotions. Always pursuing grace, witnessing to something better, and while we may want to turn back we cannot give up hope, because in the end we are made better for it. And here we are, with the artist and his vision—calling us to a home and a place for us all. Won’t you come? - Reverend Millard F. Southern III