Breaking away from the rigid programming often employed in techno, the Cobblestone Jazz trio go back to the spirit of jazz improvisation, using old technology to run free. That might not seem so new as synth improvisation goes all the way back to Weather Report in the 70s, but Tyger Dhula, Mathew Jonson and Danuel Tate seem to be looking more into the unknown, pouring their souls into explorations which could come out anywhere. It’s a unique sound, shoving sound-sources like Rhodes and 101 to the fore, using space as another instrument although beyond minimal, more organic foraging. They’re not afraid to take solos, like Daniel’s outing on ‘Slap The Back’, or recall classic electronic styles like Frankfurt 92 trouser action on ‘W’, which has already caused damage on the recent Cocoon compilation. ‘Peace Offering’ nods to close cousin deep house, the spirit of Nu groove’s Burrell brothers hovering on ‘Peace Offering’. They did a great job remixing Cybertron’s ‘Clear’ recently so seem to be finding their feet in rapturous fashion. There’s also a second CD featuring a live set from Madrid plus ‘Dump Truck’, last year’s first release on their Wagon Repair label. Major debut album for a major new force.
5 Out Of 5
Reviewed By: KRIS NEEDS
