Max Alduca - Monastery (2025) [Hi-Res]

Sydney-based double bassist and composer Max Alduca presents Monastery, his debut album — a deeply personal and spiritual journey through music. Inspired by themes of interconnectedness, trust, hope, and a tribute to his mentors, the album blends contemporary jazz, free improvisation, and cinematic soundscapes.

Featuring top Sydney jazz musicians — Hilary Geddes (guitar), Michael Avgenicos (tenor sax), Luke Sweeting (piano), and James Waples (drums) — the quintet explores meditative sound worlds through both structured compositions and open improvisation. Tracks like the title piece “Monastery” reflect on sanctuary and solitude, while “Unknown Flow” and “Scando” showcase dynamic interplay and rhythmic intensity.

Influenced by Alduca’s time studying in NYC and the Scandinavian ECM aesthetic, the album balances composed material with expressive freedom. Produced by Lloyd Swanton (The Necks), the recording process was marked by trust, ease, and strong collaborative energy.

Alduca, a sought-after bassist, has played with artists like Mike Nock, Paul Grabowsky, and Dale Barlow, and regularly tours with Eishan Ensemble and other groups. Monastery captures the close musical bond within the quintet, making it a standout debut rooted in reflection, artistry, and emotional depth.

Max Alduca - Double bass, compositions,
James Waples - drums,
Hilary Geddes - Guitar,
Luke Sweeting - Piano,
Micheal Avgenicos - Tenor Sax

Tracklist:
1-1 Max Alduca - Unknown Flow [8:55]
1-2 Max Alduca - Monastery [8:28]
1-3 Max Alduca - Homage [8:00]
1-4 Max Alduca - Scando [7:41]
1-5 Max Alduca - Sam's Bass [8:50]
1-6 Max Alduca - Sympathetic Resonance [11:09]
1-7 Max Alduca - Falling [8:57]