Danny Widdicombe & Trichotomy: Iridescence

Insightful collaboration is at the heart of amazing jazz. Australian group Trichotomy joins with singer-songwriter Danny Widdicombe on Iridescence with conviction and conscientiousness. Jazz infused with roots and folk music makes this release something somewhat rare, featuring a variety of songs, from pure instrumentals to vocal tracks; these two artists achieve an amiable and inspired balance. There is a tender warmth, heartfelt devotion, and retro attitude that propels the ten originals.

From the first track, it might seem like this is a soft-rock album, perhaps by Graham Nash or Neil Young. "Ebb and Flow" enlists steel pedal guitar, reverb, and hazy vocals. It is a late-summer sort of track that might be included in a modern-day cowboy movie (maybe from a film like The Power of the Dog). Though it touches on such stylistic tones, it is not on-the-nose about paying homage to roots and Americana artists.

The title track eases in next and brings in a stronger sense of jazz, a vague Pat Metheny quality. The guitar is smooth but still funky. The summery haze is still there in the backing instrumentals, with especially Sean Foran on keyboards and Luke Moller on strings. The piece goes more psychedelic than country, yet, it still works with what came previously and the compositions that follow. Having an instrumental piece also lets the group display different abilities, not always relying on vocals or lyrics to carry a tune.

Recorded over four days at the iconic MONA art museum in Tasmania, the release is free-flowing without being chaotic. The melodies help ground the music. "Stare into the Sun" settles back into the established country-folk style that rings with echoey waves, while "It'll be OK!" has a funkier atmosphere and a retro attitude, feeling like a tune written by The Eagles or America. Again, it is the thoughtful variety that is the key to the charm of Iridescence. Widdicombe is an astute musician. He not only works well with a team of others, but he also plays and sings his solo material with a clear devotion to the craft.

The way Trichotomy and Widdicombe blur the lines of genre showcases the need for such adventurous artistry in the industry. Occasionally, jazz can be overly post-bop or freestyling (think Al Foster and Fred Hersch respectively). Having a broader sonic palette in regard to a polyphonic style is ideal. Iridescence has a specific sound and a consistent approach. Could it include more instrumental compositions? Sure. Yet Widdicombe excels at his vocal mannerisms; they are warm and pleasant. And many of the songs, like the hypnotic "Shipping News," incorporate jazzier layers. On the whole, it is an exciting and subtly energized release with multiple tracks easily returned to.