Structures

by Ken DrydenThis inspired trio session was recorded with the musicians sharing a single microphone, making for a particularly intimate listening experience. Guitarist John Abercrombie has never sounded better, displaying the subtle lyricism that is only one facet of his musical personality, while bassist Eddie Gómez is his usual fluid self and drummer Gene Jackson adds a soft touch, frequently sticking to brushes. Gómez opens the tasty "The Touch of Your Lips" with a warm arco solo, switching back to pizzicato as the trio gains steam. Their hushed interpretation of "Moon and Sand" is stunning, as is the understated bossa nova setting of Cole Porter's "Everything I Love." Their arrangement of Bill Evans' ballad "Turn Out the Stars" (which Gómez undoubtedly played hundreds of times during his 11-plus-year tenure with the pianist) is more straight-ahead and less dramatic than its composer's conception, though no less enticing. Originals by Abercrombie and Gómez also prove to be excellent vehicles for the trio's musical explorations. Highly recommended.