Pilc Moutin Hoenig Threedom Motema 2011
Free jazz is far more than organized chaos yet there is an undefinable standard used to describe this most primitive of jazz forms. The music here is not "free" as it is the music that dictates the artistic flow or direction that this trio takes and while some may consider that a distinction without a difference it is that difference that makes this release so intriguing. There are no fixed or pre-established forms, improvisation and thought development take center stage. The standard concept of what is a "conceptual work" is shattered - the music is the concept.
Threedom brings three distinctively different instrumental voices together, each taking an individual path to the same destination. From the dark almost brooding opening of the Miles Davis classic "Nardis" to the iconic Charlie Chaplin "Smile" this is a trio that surrenders their collective musical souls to the harmonious union of one thought. "Chemistry" would be the classic undersell on Threedom as bassist Francois Moutin and drummer Ari Hoenig round out more than a simple piano trio but a formidable musical force of self discovery. The original work "Threedom" may be the prime example of a very simple organic sound that is punctuated by each participant while never bordering on the self indulgent as is often the case.
Pushing musical boundaries, this ensemble guides the music with a sonic role play of improvisations that accentuate the subtle nuances available if we as the collective audience merely "listen." Sonny Rollins is credited with making the statement that nothing in music is ever really new but a derivative. Pilc Moutin Hoenig has tunes from Miles Davis to Charlie Parker and takes the musical road less traveled. There are no pre-determined musical paths but the encouragement to find your own musical destination.
This is not jazz that you embrace. This is jazz that embraces you.
If you listen.
This You Tube Video from Motema gives an interesting look at pianist Jean-Michel Pilc
