Sunna Gunnlaugs: Becoming

Raised on a small peninsula in Iceland and later educated in New York City, Sunna Gunnlaugs, could easily have followed a different musical path if it hadn't been for the gift of a Bill Evans record in her teens. That gift set her on a path that has led to Becoming, the fifth album Gunnlaugs has released with her trio, comprising fellow Icelandic bassist Thorgrimur Jonsson and drummer (and husband) Scott McLemore.

Gunnlaugs reached number two on the Canadian radio charts with her 2010 release, The Dream (Sunny Sky Records). Featuring seven of her own compositions and relying on the interdependence of her partners, built up over ten years of playing together, the album sits neatly between the classic and the improvisational routes common for piano trios. A little of the influence of Bill Evans can still be heard and some of her keyboard combinations may remind you of Kenny Barron.

The gentle title track opens the album with a slow repeating piano pattern as Gunnlaugs reveals her soft touch on the keyboard. Jónsson and McLemore get more involved and pick up the pace with some bluesy hints. "Suddenly Autumn" is a swinging up-tempo tune with a memorable piano melody. A bass solo leads into piano and bass interplay around the theme, followed by fine drumming from McLemore. Jónsson and McLemore both have freedom to solo in "Sound of Summer," whilst Gunnlaugs' piano improvisation is fast and fluid.

The melody arc on "Make the Jump" is slowly revealed as Gunnlaugs' searching piano darts in different directions. Jónsson and McLemore tease by driving the beat with contrasting structures. With a gentle piano lead-in and a great hook, the bluesy and atmospheric "Nicotune," has the trio working with great restraint before upping the intensity. The album ends with an alternate take on the title track.

Memorable melodies, creative compositions and interesting improvisations make this album open, appealing and accessible. The interplay between Gunnlaugs and her colleagues is subtle and cohesive throughout. Whoever bought her that Bill Evans record should be thanked as this album reveals more each time you press the play button, which is something you may find yourself doing frequently.

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