Believers: Hard Believer

Belief—the cornerstone of conceptual development and the impetus for any pursuit, artistic or otherwise—is central to the shared mission binding guitarist Brad Shepik, bassist Sam Minaie and drummer/percussionist John Hadfield in this aptly titled trio. Through their eponymous 2020 debut—a strong album that flew under the radar due to its pandemic-era release timing—these three established an aesthetic reflective of global influences and wide-ranging interests. And with this sophomore date, they further that outlook by branching out in numerous directions and embracing a variety of traditions and approaches.

Opening on the title track—one of four Shepik originals on the program—this outfit demonstrates art built on the balance point of measure and resolve. The rhythm team proves firm yet pliable from the start, with Hadfield laying down and elaborating on a tasteful asymmetric groove in nine and Minaie providing expert guidance with well-considered bass lines and markers. Shepik, both within and above it all, paints with variegated harmonic brushstrokes, melodizes with class and soars in signature fashion. "Broken English"—Hadfield's lone compositional inclusion—goes a different way, fusing outré experimentalism and electronic music in inimitable fashion. A delightfully disorienting number built around sophisticated metric sleight of hand, it's pure desire in fire.

Moving further into the program, these believers captivate from various angles and locales. West African strains surface through the guitarist's dance-friendly "In the Weeds." Menace and hope engage in a weighted pas de deux on Minaie's "Corduroy." Steve Swallow's "Falling Grace" offers rising tides and sharp turns aplenty. And "Ranglin" runs the Afro-reggae down, nodding to Jamaican six-stringer Ernest Ranglin in title and substance.

Shepik's "Pilgrimage," occupying the penultimate slot, looks forward while drawing from his past. A number originally appearing on the composer's Short Trip (Knitting Factory, 2001)—a notable trio set with bassist Scott Colley and drummer Tom Rainey—it's reenergized in these six hands. "Rocinante"—a Minaie composition that namechecks Don Quixote's equine companion and reflects that horse's stamina and power—serves as a feisty farewell and summation of this combo's creative mindset. Operating with collective verve while playing to individual strengths in oh so many ways, this is one band that's full of intriguing ideas executed with passion and commitment. Hard Believer, possessing its own unique aura, is quite easy to admire.