Ivo Perelman - Dave Burell - Bobby Kapp: Trichotomy

Intrepid saxophonist Ivo Perelman is a master improviser who has the knack of engaging others of a similar mindset to create provocative music. On his third release of 2023, the stimulating Trichotomy, he joins forces with the equally innovative pianist Dave Burrell with whom he recorded a duo session a few years back. Versatile drummer Bobby Kapp, another idiosyncratic artist, completes the trio which stretches out on two long, dynamic, multilayered pieces.

"Part One" starts off with a few "traditional" bars yet the passionate interplay quickly embraces delightful dissonance. Perelman builds his improvisation from short, crisp phrases. These poignant building blocks form complex, fiery melodies and vibrant sonic structures. Burrell's block chords accumulate into crystalline structures which shimmer with dark hues while alone or when interacting with other bandmates. Kapp drives the performance with thundering polyrhythmic bursts; he switches between sparse, resonant beats and exacting martial drumming.

The track maintains a tense ambiance despite the ebb and flow of emotions which mark the collective extemporizations. For instance, around the midpoint spirited exchanges hint at introspection while maintaining an understated exuberance. After a couple of minutes the trio builds fervent momentum and launches into an exciting repartee filled with intelligence and whimsy.

"Part Two" is more contemplative, with Kapp and Perelman first building a mystical ambience with spare cymbal splashes and low tenor growls. Burrell enters with single, chiming notes echoing in long silent pauses. Slowly this wistful conversation simmers to a riotous repartee which maintains a forlorn, melancholic quality. After a brief blues-tinged passage, the ensemble ups the tempo with Perelman blowing plaintive lines, Burrell percussing the keys and Kapp's kit percolating in the backdrop. The individual, interwoven streams of consciousness fade back into somber serenity with the tune's conclusion.

Once again, Perelman has produced an elegant work of spontaneous expression. His and his colleagues' brilliance and seamless camaraderie is what makes Trichotomy another superlative addition to his discography.