Whilst this album may not be considered groundbreaking, this is the Trio's first album. In Movement is hot on the release of Jack DeJohnette's quintet recording, Made in Chicago (2015).
Jack is certainly one of the busiest jazz artist on today's circuit, appearing on 62 albums since 1969, and has more releases than any other artist on the ECM label.
The Jazz is strong in this trio. Jack is joined by Ravi Coltrane, son of John and Alice Coltrane, and not forgetting the incredibly talented bassist Matthew Garrison. Track three, Two Jimmys, is dedicated to Matthew's father. Ravi and Matthew have long list of credits to their name that includes working with McCoy Tyner, Christian McBride, Michael Brecker, John McLaughin, Chaka Khan and Herbie Hancock - to name but a few.
There is unity in this album between the artists and yet an element of independence noted in the free-spirited solos.
I have to admit I thought this was going to be a 'grower' in terms of getting used to. However, I was surprised from the first track, Alabama. This sets the scene to what becomes very interesting journey. It reminds me of a long drive in the Deep South, miles of road ahead with the sun beating down. In these situations all you can do is think...
In Movement, the title track, and the longest on the album, has a very nice slow building electronic intro to compliment Jack's keyboard skills. Again, a minimalist tune where Ravi almost has free ownership and interpretation of this movement.
Two Jimmys is dedicated to Jimmy Garrison and Jimmy Hendrix. This tune would certainly get their blessing. Blue in Green is a rendition of the Miles Davies track from his Columbia album, Kind Of Blue - to replace Miles' trumpet with Ravi's sax and maintain the deepness gets my respect anytime of the day.
Serpentine Fire... All I can say is wow! This is not what you think. This is a heavy, slow-funk-jazz combo with Matthew laying down some nice bass in the background to this Earth, Wind & Fire classic. You could almost imagine Matt playing with his eyes shut, feeling the funk as Ravi plays plays over Jack's drum-flams ‘on-the-four’. This is a nice, fitting tribute to the late Maurice White.
Lydia is a free jazz type movement, dedicated to Jack DeJohnette's wife. As we all know, behind every successful man is the supporting and successful woman. The saxophone chorus is melodic and memorable.
Rashied is the crazy tune on the album in a good way. One for the post-bop and avant-garde fans. Having danced jazz many times, I found it hard to keep still to this track that is dedicated Rashid Ali.
Soulful Ballad is a nice ending to this album's journey. Ravi and Jack's piano skills are well phased.
This is a fitting album for your collection.
Track listings: Alabama, In Movement, Two Jimmys, Blue in Green, Serpentine Fire, Lydia, Rashied, Soulful Ballad
Musicians: Jack DeJohnette: Drums, Piano, Electric Percussion; Ravi Coltrane: Tenor, Soprano and Sopranino Saxophone; Matthew Garrison: Electric Bass & Electronics
Producer: Manfred Eicher
Review: Fernando Rose
