New York-based guitarist-composer Matt Panayides leads a quintet through a fascinating jazz recording based on the jazz tradition but also exploring new sonic landscapes by mixing electric and acoustic sounds in a set of modern, highly original compositions. "Field Theory" is a departure from Panayides' previous releases that were acoustic, straight-ahead projects. Playing on this recording are Panayides-guitar/comp, Matt Vashlishan-wind synth, Rich Perry-tenor sax, Bob Sabin-bass, and Mark Ferber-drums.
There is a vitality of the performances, starting with the opening "Kite Flying." Vashlishan's organ-sounding comping cushions Panayides scintillating single-note runs while Sabin and Ferber swing the performance. "Disturbance" has an anxious feel between Panayides' agitated guitar riff and Perry's stormy solo. There is an impressive use of guitar effects for the moody "Closer Now," along with a well-crafted crystalline guitar solo as Ferber's drumming helps build the intensity. Sabin's bass line underlines the energetic title track with the rhythm generating a propulsive foundation for a white-hot solo.
"Energy Mover" is aptly titled with the leader and Perry heating things with their solos. Vashlishan is showcased on "2.27.20," which refers to the date this album was recorded. It is an atmospheric if unstructured performance. This recording's centerpiece may be the four-part "Penta Folk," with a mix of relatively open structured, and structured parts with proactive solos and splendid interplay by the quintet. It is representative of the first-rate, absorbing music on this recording.
I got my review copy from a publicist. Here is a performance by Matt Panayides' Field Theory
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