Pat Battstone, The Last Taxi: In Transit Review

Jazz

Pat Battstone, The Last Taxi: In Transit Review

 

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Pat Battstone continues to put forth creative and groundbreaking releases through collaborations with other like-minded musicians who share in his adventuresome spirit. His latest adventures have been in collaboration with the musical circles in Puglia, Italy, namely those of Gianna Montecalvo in Bari and Gianni Lenoci in Monopoli.  This is his fourth CD he has recorded and produced with Italian vocalists since 2016.  In January of this year we reviewed his last effort Elements, also a daring release.  Now, with the release of The Last Taxi: In Transit, once again Battstone’s risk taking is in full view.  He is joined by Chris Rathbun double bass; Richard Poole drums, vibraphone; Ilona Kudina flutes; Todd Brunel clarinet; Gianna Montecalvo vocals, spoken word; and his previous collaborator Antonella Chionna vocals, spoken word.  That’s the short of It!

Positives:

Battstone has a knack for shoring players with equally open-minded risk-taking spirits. This release like his previous albums feature a cavalcade of stellar performances.

Bottom Line:

Battstone on piano is emotive and sensitive in his support when comping. He creates a pillow of supportive notes, while still adding in creative tensions that push the other musicians to be at their utmost potential of creativity. What is most interesting about Battstone’s compositions is their unrivaled honesty. Battstone is keen to listening and interacting, and this reflects in his music. The two vocalists on this project add a depth of spontaneity, and one can only find themselves listening more deeply to their captivating improvisations. Equally supported by an interactive ensemble, each musician dutifully gives their all-in support of the highest moments of creation within the ideal of the composition. Another wonderful production and recording by Battstone, his prolific release schedule only solidify this man is on fire.

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