Edward Ware - Ed Ware's Tree (2000)

Tracklist

01. Kasa
02. Age of Dust
03. Spirit
04. Goat (after Pablo and Robert)
05. Distance
06. Reflections
07. Real Time Lives
08. Seedling
09. Still Need
10. Drum Solo

Ten years after relocating to New York City from New Zealand, drummer Edward Ware has unleashed his first recording as a leader—a self-released affair that displays his talents as globally influenced percussionist and composer. However, those familiar with Ware's work alongside saxophonist Chris Kelsey and other NYC free jazz luminaries might be surprised at the fusion-oriented nature of this session.

Employing the unique instrumentation of drums, trombone and guitar (played alternately by Pete McCann and Jerome Harris), Ware's Tree references equal parts 80s Downtown NYC funk-influenced jazz, Prime Time Harmolodics and even a bit of Afrobeat in constructing its sonic terrain. Ware's solid funk sensibilities and melodic polyrhythms propel the band through a series of tight arrangements, all the while incorporating his bandmates' dynamics (see "Spirit" for a particularly infectious example) into his guiding percussive force. Unfortunately, the heavily effected guitar tones employed by both McCann and Harris detract from the otherwise organic feel of the compositions—especially on "Real Time Lives", where the excessive electronic harmonization transforms an alluring groove into a tepid fusion throwback. However, Joe Fiedler's earthy trombone stylings redeem much of the ostentation of the guitars, particularly the brilliantly fuzzy mute work he injects into "Distance" and "Still Need".

Guitar misgivings aside, this recording provides a stellar opportunity for listeners to better acquaint themselves with Ware's distinctive abilities—even if they find it necessary to skip ahead to the disc-concluding "Drum Solo".

DOWNLOAD ALBUM [flac]