THE THIRD QUARTET

If you don't like the so-called 'ECM sound' associated with modern European jazz then this is probably best avoided, but if, like me, you can't get enough of it, then its definatley worth listening to. It is a lovely melodious set. Abercrombie, as always, has a gentle, wistful guitar sound, but the real star of the album is Marc Feldman's violin. His playing is lyrical and emotive. Feldman may also be known to experimental jazz fans for his playing with John Zorn's Masada quartet and he has also appeared with Michael Brecker. The delicate, but edgy atmosphere of the album is maintained throughout by the restrained, but brilliant drumming of Joey Baron, another veteran of the Massada quartet and Manfred Eicher's production is clean and uncluttered. Its not an album that will grab you by the throat, but give it a chance and it might just take you on a journey. The opening tune, 'Banshee' sets the tone for the rest of the album which peaks for me with the gorgeous 'Tres'. Strangely, the track called 'Epilogue' does not come at the end of the album, although perhaps it was conceptually intended to, as the two tracks that follow it don't really add anything to the mix.