Brian Trainor: Tangled Roots (2003)

Jim Santella

Senior Contributor since 1997

Jim Santella has been contributing CD reviews, concert reviews and DVD reviews to AAJ since 1997. His work has also appeared in Southland Blues, The L.A. Jazz Scene, and Cadence Magazine.

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Published: April 5, 2003

For the sake of love and genuine friendship, Brian Trainor composed this suite of mellow tunes. Each depicts one special aspect of a specific personal relationship. At the same time, Trainor’s impressionism allows the listener to share in those themes. Dancing a tango, riding bicycles together, sharing quiet moments, discussing world affairs and personal thoughts: these are the sources that we can all appreciate. The trio establishes each theme clearly. Trainor lights a few fires and expands several pieces beyond just one theme. The music of traditional Spain is represented; as is the street scene of New Orleans and Rio. But most of Trainor’s sixth release as a leader lie pensive and moody, with dreamscapes taking the listener on a tour of tender memories.

The title track meanders with hot, straight-ahead energy. It’s the only place on the album where Trainor reveals his deep affinity for the music of Thelonious Monk. No doubt, this special part of his music is being saved for another day.

Can the music of Monk relate naturally to a relationship of romance and close, lifelong friendship? Of course it can. Reality has that effect on you. We find quirky asides, dissonant particles and syncopated spaces in every close relationship. With his Tangled Roots suite, Brian Trainor has elected to explore his dreams with a gentle spirit and explain them through harmonious empathy. Take off your shoes, settle in for the evening, and relax to the trio’s mellow form of enchantment.

Visit trainorjazz.com .

Track Listing: The Bike; The Wait (Prelude); The Dance Commences; It Has Always Been Her Eyes; As She Sleeps; The Move; Scars of Ironwood and Ash; Tangled Roots; The Meeting 5/6; As the Weightless Cloud Grows Some Flowers Must Die; The Dance Commences.

Personnel: Brian Trainor- piano; Ricardo (Richie) Ferrer- bass; Jeff Jerolamon- drums.

Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream