Well honed piano trio session…
Marcin Wasilewski Trio – En Attendant – ECM 2677 – 43:01 – ****
(Marcin Wasilewski – piano; Slawomir Kurkiewicz – bass; Michal Miskiewicz – drums)
Marcin Wasilewski and his trio have played together consistently for nearly thirty years. This experience has given them a simpatico that only time together can bring. It provides open communication always, and a vision for improvisation. Experimentation is both allowed, and encouraged, as there is always “safe landing.”
This rhythm section was “discovered” by Polish jazz trumpet icon, Tomasz Stanko. They soon became his backing trio. The boutique jazz label, ECM, then came calling in 2005. Marcin has recorded at least ten releases for the label, and his recently released CD, En Attendant,is another sure winner.
It has an intriguing mix of four originals– (three are expanded versions of an improvisational, “In Motion”) ; Bach’s “Variation 25”; Carla Bley’s “Vashtar”, and a well done tackling of The Doors’ “Riders in the Rain.”
The constant throughout is Wasilewski’s glimmering piano, backed by intuitive bass and drums. The acoustics are spot on- with a chamber hall resonance. The bass is upfront with a vibrancy that is pleasing.
The three part “In Motion” tracks are reflective, open improvisation, each a bit different, but all are contemplative in nature. There is room to stretch out and the bassist, Kurkiewicz, is featured prominently. I hear a bit of Bill Evans in Marcin’s gentle touch and caress of the notes.
Carla Bley’s “Vashtar” follows in the same vein. “Glimmer of Hope” is sublime with its yearning theme. “Riders in the Storm” is done just right as a jazz ballad, both respectful to its origin, but not overdone. It has a gentle vibe, and its bass accompaniment makes it special.
Fans of this trio will find a lot to like here. It is a first class issue, from start to finish…
Tracklist:
In Motion, Part 1
Variation 25
Vashtar
In Motion, Part II
Glimmer of Hope
Riders on the Storm
In Motion, Part III
—Jeff Krow
