Jazz spliced with hip-hop and other modern elements from The Young Mothers…we heard this combo in 2014 and their album A Mothers Work Is Never Done which featured much the same personnel and mix-em-up stylistic approach, in a forceful and energetic package.
Today’s offering Better If You Let It (SONIC TRANSMISSIONS RECORDS STRCD26) feels a little more subdued overall, but the invention and innovation is still strong. It’s the Norwegian bassist Ingebrigt Håker Flaten who spotted the opportunity for a new freedom of expression when he moved to Texas in 2009 and found himself surrounded with many exciting modes he wanted to try for himself. Teaming up with these assorted American geniuses has proven very productive. Once again we must single out the contributions of rapper Jawwaad Taylor (credited with “rhymes” on the cover) who also provides electronics and trumpet, and the splendid drummer Frank Rosaly out of Chicago, without whose versatility and precision it’s doubtful this band could even function. The title track is the most attention-getting piece here, and it seems to be pulling in three directions at once, the snappy tricky rhythms, the unpredictable vocals of Taylor, and the relaxed brass section which could almost have been lifted from Miles’ Big Fun.
Rest of the record thereafter is OK; some good skronk moments from Jason Jackson on ‘Hymn’, an atonal and sombre opening segment on ‘Song For A Poet’, some demented guitar soloing from Jonathan F. Horne on ‘Scarlet Woman Lodge’, which is when the whole band finally let rip with the chaotic and energised promise shown on that 2014 record. I’d like to hear more such “out” moments, but it’s a good record. Vinyl version also available. (05/02/2025)