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Tom Chang: Tongue and Groove
ByChang's imposing skills are evident whether shredding notes or finessing intricate comps. His writing is elevated by some of New York City's finest jazz artists with the two horned frontline of tenor saxophonist Jason Rigby and alto Greg Ward's twisting lines and the compelling rhythmic center of bassist Chris Lightcap and drummer Gerald Cleaver holding down multifaceted time signatures with their usual vigor.
Chang's tutelage in South Indian Carnatic music is showcased in the memorable title track with inspiring work from everyone and guest percussionist / vocalist T.H. Subash Chandran. It's reminiscent of works by saxophonist Rudresh Mahanthappa and Pakistani-American guitarist Rez Abbasi and equally striking. To switch things up, the album closes with a rubato-flavored "Entangoed Heart" featuring Rigby's tenor explorations, Lightcap's sinewy bass and Cleaver's explosive kit as Chang expertly adds colorful touches. An impressive debut.
Track Listing
Spinal Tap / Goes to 11; Djangolongo; Variations for Piano Op. 27; Sleepwalker; Tongue & Groove; Scatterbrain; Bar Codes; The Logos; Entangoed Heart; Spinal Tap (Tk. 2).
Personnel
Tom Chang
guitarTom Chang: guitar; Greg Ward: alto saxophone; Jason Rigby: tenor saxophone; Chris Lightcap: bass; Gerald Cleaver: drums; Akshay Anatapadmanabhan: kanjira, mrindigam; Subash Chandran: konnakol.
Album information
Title: Tongue and Groove | Year Released: 2014 | Record Label: Self Produced
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