DeChellis, Tomasic, Nakatani Trio: Real Time

Although the somewhat sparse CD liners do not disclose much information, this CD was recorded live as the New England based trio of DeChellis, Tomasic and Nakatani engage in some crafty improvisational language on Real Time. Having individually performed with the likes of Gerry Hemmingway, Ran Blake, Peter Erskine and others, this Trio engage in some serious improvisation which immediately brings to mind the noble British free-jazz scene. Not to draw comparisons here, but a portion of the three rather lengthy tracks are slightly reminiscent of territory that Derek Bailey and the late John Stevens were exploring 20 plus years ago. To their credit, these gents do project a contemporary or modernized feel, namely within the flourishing creative-improv scene, as New England has become somewhat of a Mecca these days for improvising artists.

Track 1, simply titled - #1, features Tatsuya Nakatani swatting, smacking and whacking his assortment of drums, cymbals and percussion instruments. Guitarist Philip Tomasic utilizes his volume control to great effect along with some good-natured doses of distortion. Tomasic is adept at providing textural layers, which counters Dan DeChellis’ sometimes nimble or altogether pounding, rhythmically inclined block chords. “#1” clocks in at 32 minutes and closes in somewhat of a comatose state, as the overall dynamic approach to thematic development is akin to reading a mystery novel, where the reader is caught up in all the suspense. On the tracks titled, “#2 and #3” the Trio evolve into more of a call and response approach whereas, the opening track emits more of a communal atmosphere, as the musicians were a bit busier while performing in unison on “#1”. On “#3”, Tomasic churns in some rapid plucking while also stretching and bending notes to the hilt. Real Time is just that! Perhaps the agreed upon ground rules were by design, similar to - taking a walk in a dense forest without the benefit of a compass or map. A daring sense of adventure prevails throughout! * * * *