Ballcock - 821 (2003)

Ballcock is a fascinating young trio from the Raval district of Barcelona, itself a veritable hub of creativity in the city. Formed in 2000, the members include composer/arranger Juan Pablo Balcázar (bass), August Corominas (drums) and Miguel Villar (tenor sax), as well as regular contributions from some renowned names on the local scene, such as Dani Perez and Joe Smith (both Fresh Sound New Talent regulars), among others.

The disc 821 is the trio's first recording and is made up of eight original pieces: two of which are based upon the lines of classic jazz pieces, Solar and Autumn Leaves. The first of the pieces is an improvisation about images and the second is a written interlude. The track which probably the piece that best defines the philosophy of the group is 'Vida bajo las bombas'. For this recording the trio has worked with acclaimed guitarists Santi Careta (Sergi Sirvent Group '9 musas', Ass Trio) and Alejandro Mingot (Teresa Zabalza Quintet, Sant Pau 44, Heckler).

This is Ballcock, an exciting and unique blend of humour, freedom and, of course, great music.

Miguel 'Pinxo' Villar (ts), Juan Pablo Balcazar (b), August Corominas (d), Santi Careta, Alejandro Mingot (g)