Michael Bisio Quartet: MBefore

In the dark days of Covid and the lingering return to normality, only a handful of musicians managed to be prolific. Fewer remained relevant. Bassist & composer Michael Bisio is among the more productive artists, with half a dozen releases during the pandemic. Add to that collection MBefore, with the bassist's new namesake quartet. The album was recorded at Clubhouse Studio in Rhinebeck, New York, in March 2021, and includes liner notes by Matthew Shipp. The group comprised some top—if under-celebrated—artists in the avant-garde and free jazz wings of the genre. There are few degrees of separation between violist Mat Maneri, vibes master Karl Berger, and drummer Whit Dickey, leading to an unforced equilibrium.

MBefore consists of five Bisio compositions, two from Berger, and one group improvisation. The sole cover is the well-worn standard, "I Fall in Love Too Easily," here given a fresh, unconventional reading. The album opens with "AC 2.0," a reworking of Bisio's "Arrested Confusion," from the Tani Tabbal Trio album Now Then (TAO Forms, 2020). It is an interesting and appealing reinvention at a slightly slower tempo. The trading of viola for the original Adam Siegel alto saxophone stamps Maneri's mark on this one.

The group interplay is superb on "Intravenous Voice" and "r. henri." The inviting rhythmic interplay is spirited, yet often at the fringes. Both Bisio and Maneri can be driving forces or complementary accompanists; in both cases, they shine here. The quartet displays a commitment to carrying a spirited passion for the music above the presence of complex improvisations. The expansive nature of MBefore is an ideal vehicle for the quartet's command of shading, counterpoint, and open playing. Together, Bisio, Maneri, Berger, and Dickey create a nuanced, finely integrated language, merged with the natural features of their individual voices. It is exceptional virtuosic ensemble playing and is highly recommended.