The Ilja quintet is led by Swiss guitarist Dimitri Howald, who wrote all the fabric right here. An assured, space-conscious participant, equally relaxed with issues of flowing linear growth and rubato reverie, Howald cites guitarists similar to America’s Kurt Rosenwinkel and the Norwegians Lage Lund and Stian Westerhus as chief elective affinities – which ought to give some indication of the creativity evident all through this intelligently conceived and totally partaking launch.
The chief’s processed, vivid and ringing sound and attractively diverse phrasing are complemented by each the darker tones and upper-register ventures of tenorist Gilsenan, one other participant of well-judged rhythmic selection. And the rhythm part is true on the transitional cash, dealing with vamps, cooking swing, funky back-beats and abstracted interludes with each class and drive.
At instances the suite-like, shape-shifting however all the time lucid complete tasks a measured hymnal temper, whereas at different moments a extra “outdoors” or venturesome factor is overseas.
I’d have picked out specific tracks for instance my general admiration however, sadly, this proved unimaginable – as, whereas the CD sleeve lists seven items, 9 registered on my participant. However don’t let that put you off investigating a strikingly good debut launch from this high quality Swiss quintet.
Discography
Blue Layers; Interlude; For A Little Good friend; White Sneakers; Taxi 31; A Homicide Of Crows; Religious Cycle (51.31)
Dimitri Howald (elg, v); Michael Gilsenam (ts); Tom Millar (p); Jeremie Krütli (b); Tobias Schmid (d). Maur 18-20 January 2020.
Antidro-Information.web
