The signature-lyricism and melancholy of
Colin Vallon's compositions as well as his trio's understated three-way interaction remain magically intact on Samares
. Yet, much has evolved in the sound of the Swiss pianist's group since their last record for ECM, 2017's Danse
, among other things Vallon's freshly introduced use of electronics to modulate his instrument's pitch.
Dynamic extremes are explored and tuneful hooks – some melody-, some harmony-, others beat-based – patiently assembled, often completed in mesmerizing fashion. Where subtle rhythmic twists and harmonic progressions constructed around piano triads recall cutting-edge inspirations from the world of art-rock, other expositions reveal a tight-knit jazz trio elaborating a chamber sound focused on close listening and reacting. Recorded at Lugano's Auditorio Stelio Molo in 2023, Samares was produced by Manfred Eicher.
