MAMMAL HANDS — Gift from the Trees (review)

MAMMAL HANDS — Gift from the Trees album cover Album · 2023 · Post-Fusion Contemporary Buy this album from MMA partners
3.5/5 ·
Carmel
Mammal Hands' latest album, "Gift from the Trees," is the trio of Jordan Smart on saxophone, Nick Smart on piano, and Jesse Barrett on drums recording an album in a residential studio, and they were all about capturing those organic experiences and interactions that come with late-night jamming. The album is a mix of pre-composed and improvised ideas, all in an effort to capture the energy of Mammal Hands' live shows. The album's title speaks to the trio's unique perspective, infusing their compositions with the sounds and rhythms of their Welsh surroundings.

The first track, "The Spinner," takes inspiration from the Welsh environment and builds up a stylish groove with elegant textures. Nick's piano playing propels the music forward, with Barrett and Jordan adding color and textures. It's a beautiful piece that builds up energy to seamlessly create a musical whole. Mammal Hands have a unique quality of melody and tone, and they show it off on this track.

"Kernel" continues the bright and hopeful energy with a theme that is built with counterpoint. Mammal Hands seamlessly blends pre-composed elements with improvisation, creating a sound that's organic, groovy, and rich in texture. The saxophone, piano, and drums all take turns in the spotlight, creating a harmonious whole that's greater than the sum of its parts.

Overall, "Gift from the Trees" is a distinctive Welsh jazz album brought to you by the creative and unique trio called Mammal Hands. The instrumentation and collective energy of the trio allow them to build organic, groove-based, and colorful soundscapes that will inspire and uplift you.

If you're looking for something fresh and innovative in the jazz world, you don't want to miss out on this album.
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