Intensified commitment to the French-African drummer’s programme of
“beautifully mutated grooves and jazzy themes” (to quote The Guardian)
distinguishes Manu Katché’s third ECM album. Inside an all-new line-up,
bassist Pino Palladino nonchalantly reinforces the groove element – he
and Katché have much shared history as sessioneers – and helps the
pulses of Manu’s tunes to dance. Pianist Rebello has both delicacy of
touch and energy to burn, and saxophonist Brunborg, currently playing
at a peak, solos passionately on Katché’s melodies. Guest guitarist
Jacob Young shades and colours a handful of pieces, while Kami Lyle
adds innocent vocals to “Stay With You”. Recorded in the South of
France in December 2009 and issued on the eve of a major European tour,
“Third Round” is poised to be one of the season’s jazz hits.
Release Date March 12, 2010 in Australia. March 19th in Europe.
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