Chris Platt: Sky Glow

Toronto-based guitarist Chris Platt's debut outing stands out among releases by his contemporaries because, among other things, of its creation of singular nuances within the structural and sonic conventions of a classical jazz trio—rather than following the prevailing modern atmospheric-approach, which seems to be dominated by sound in place of composition. With the support of fellow Toronto-based Phill Albert on bass and drummer Robin Claxton, Platt displays adventurously fluid lines played over original, thought-provoking compositions of a rather melancholic flavor.

The room in which these explorations unfold is kept small and intimate. Each instrument's sound is defined by a striking clarity in texture and a profundity of color and breadth. Platt's archtop is the leading character, spreading unique warmth by organically mixing electric efficiency in attack with an earthy-woody release. Slower paced compositions, such as the eponymous "Sky Glow," emphasize these sonic aspects by giving the musicians space and time to juggle with and pass on ideas and motifs without ever sounding overloaded. Pratt's phrasing remains subtle yet distinctive throughout the pleasantly tempered set of tunes and he chooses wonderful moments to hang back and let Phill Albert essay a few decisive yet elegant lines as well.

The short and speedy "Platter" is the rocker of the record and finds the trio alternating with different rhythms and constantly changing pace in order to rile things up before Platt closes the record solo, on a more somber progression of slowly stroked chord changes. This wood is definitely alive—you can hear it breathe.

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