A welcome return of one of the great trios. A STELLAR NIGHT IN DALSTON….. A MUST SEE -That’s how Jazzwise described this gig. ‘vivid sharply-drawn soundscapes that varied greatly in texture and tone *****’ (FT
Ches Smith (drums, percussion, vibes), Craig Taborn (piano), Mat Maneri (viola)
As Ches describes it himself: “An improvising trio that plays compositions as well. THE BELL, out January 15, 2016 on ECM, is just that, Craig, Mat and I playing my pieces I wrote for the group.”
All three have been regulars at the Vortex over the years, and it’s great that they will be performing together. For one night, the Vortex will be a NY Downtown haunt.
“His first album as a composer and bandleader on the iconic ECM label burns with a subtle heat.” (Pitchfork)
“For Smith, The Bell was not meant to be the stepping off point for a new group but rather a one-time impromptu session. However, after he, Maneri and Taborn played live in New York, Smith realized he an opportunity to create something more lasting with this exceptional group. His written compositions are intentionally kept minimal so as to let the improvisations take center stage. The trio responds to this approach with an appealingly patient mix of empty spaces, complex phrasing and textures that play in the moment and with an organic feeling.” (Karl Ackermann, allaboutjazz)