Evan Parker-Phil Wachsmann-Teppo Hauta-aho: The Needles

The first disc represents the trio’s collaboration during a performance at “The 9th International Kerava Jazz Festival” at “Keuda House,” “Kerava Hall, Finland. While disc two was recorded at London’s infamous “Gateway Studios.” Ultimately, these improvising masters spread their wings in exuberant fashion! Many of these pieces feature the artists’ ability to mimic and counterbalance one another’s micro-motifs. On “Swans Apiece,” violinist Phil Wachsmann and bassist Teppo Hauta-aho execute a series of jabs and flurries, marked by surreal elements, as Parker makes his presence known via a sequence of fleeting statements. Here and throughout, Wachsmann and Hauta-aho provide the brewing yet often-sinuous undercurrents. Parker bobs and weaves, whether performing on soprano or tenor saxophones, as the musicians’ inspiring and sometimes-playful explorations are part of an addendum consisting of good cheer, and other emotive characteristics. The saxophonist’s patented circular breathing techniques coupled with his unfathomably complex maneuvers are prominently exhibited. Wachsmann’s staccato lines are interspersed with unusual and somewhat eerie sounds. But the violinist is also cognizant of integrating humor into the grand scheme of things. The musicians’ mode of attack seemingly emanates from a variety of angles or fronts, whereby the results tend to be systematically gratifying. Recommended...

Leo Records

Comments