Search - Gonzalo Rubalcaba :: Trio

Imaginative outing

sandstone | 12/01/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"that contrasts with other outings i've heard from rubalcaba.. i think the music is excellent, interactive, reflective and top drawer... my only criticism is in the mix where the piano is way out front and the rhythm section is off in the distant background.. it is especially disappointing from the point of view of getting the impression dennis chambers is doing something outside of what he is mostly known for- fusion- booga, booga type drumming which is partly based on tonal characteristics of his drums- the way he tunes them.. stylistically he sounds more like blade or dejohnette here, but unfortunately can't be heard properly to be appreciated, except on his solo on one of the tracks.. bromberg is similarly buried... at any rate the piano playing is really relaxed and more introspective for what i've heard from rubalacaba and is a real treat for those of us who like hearing long improvs on standards where imagination is key... not sure how i have a copy of this- borrowed from a friend and it is saying the release date is the end of this month??? something is wonky their... perhaps it was released before??? - either way- very good music worth a review to comment on it..."