Ben Perowsky Trio (feat. Chris Speed & Scott Colley)

Album review

This live recording at the Knitting Factory in N.Y.C. surely recalls the old Village Vanguard trio sessions of Sonny Rollins, Wilbur Ware, and Elvin Jones gone further out. They are similar in spontaneity and progressive attitude. Extendo-saxophonist/clarinetist Chris Speed and in-the-pocket bassist Scott Colley join rubberband-flexible and potent drummer Ben Perowsky as a power trio that is juggernaut, steamroller powerful in most instances, though there are some tender moments present. One such demure respite is a version of "In a Sentimental Mood" done in more lavender that blue shadings, with Speed on tenor. The opener, "El Destructo," a 13-minute modal workout in ten beats to the measure, carves out the essence of the combo, more a deconstruction. "Janitor" is also aggressive, hip and happening, as is a fine take on Charlie Parker's bop flag waver "Segment." As a zinger, they tackle an Olivier Messiaen theme arranged by Perowsky "Danse De La Fureur, Pour Les Sept Trompettes," with Speed on clarinet during a two-and-a-half-minute hyper-kinetic romp. "Electric Sheep" is free and spooky, as is Pink Floyd's "Money," featuring Speed's melodic, smeared, and multi-phonic lines. It's a trip, it's a gas. There are many redeeming moments, as the collective musicianship is strongly framed. Perowsky, as leader, is willing to both take chances and adopt familiar themes, mixing them in an alchemist's brew that crosses many cultural and generational lines.
© Michael G. Nastos /TiVo