Simon Nabatov: Roundup (2010)

GLENN ASTARITA,

Glenn Astarita

Senior Contributor since 1997

Longtime contributor to AAJ and Downbeat, Jazz Review, EjazzNews, Radio DirectX.

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Published: November 15, 2010

Track review of "Sunrise, Twice"

With venerable band mates generating a sympathetic framework, Russian-reared/New York City-based pianist Simon Nabatov re-fabricates ambiances into slightly fragmented story lines on the superb Roundup. Featuring semi-structured tone poems spiked with dissonance, budding grooves, and intriguing dialogues among the players, Nabatov opens with a transcendent melody on "Sunrise, Twice."

The pianist's cascading chord voicings and trickling right-hand patterns spawn a gradual shift to a faintly ominous vibe, treated with swirling choruses and rhythmic clusters. Underscored by trombonist Nils Wogram and saxophonist Matthias Schubert's dissonant contrasts, "Sunrise, Twice" morphs into an ascending deconstruction via extended notes and intersecting sub-themes. Finalizing the piece on a hauntingly harmonious note, this is just the beginning of Nabatov 's truly captivating endeavor, engulfed in a cavalcade of polyrhythmic perspectives and fascinating exchanges by the players. A masterfully inventive pianist, Nabatov drills his fluid thought processes and clever inventions into the broad realm of modern-day jazz and improvisation.

Personnel: Simon Nabatov: piano; Matthias Schubert: tenor saxophone; Ernst Reijseger: cello; Nils Wogram: trombone; Tom Rainey: drums.

Record Label: Leo Records