Quiet Tiger - new Kit Downes Trio CD

Posted by: graham halliwell on 07 April 2011

On Quiet Tiger Kit has actually expanded the trio into a quintet, adding tenor sax/bass clarinet and cello on all but 3 of the 11 tracks.

 

It's a lovely album, and I think Kit has an exceptional ear for melody and arrangement.  A melancholy atmosphere pervades many pieces, but it is never dirge like or gloomy.  The expanded instrumentation gives more colour and texture, witnessed right from the start with some beautiful eery bass clarinet tones.  On the way a few pieces sound a little too referential to the likes of Keith Jarrett for my taste, and the few 'free jazz' sections sound a bit lame and self conscious to my ears, but overall this is a CD I'd recommend to almost anyone, especially if you like a good tune in a thought provoking context.  Nice artwork too. 

Posted on: 08 April 2011 by JWM

Are you going to see them tonight in Norwich, Graham?  I had an "Aaaarrrgggghhhhh!"   moment because of an unavoidable work engagement this evening, so I can't go.

 

James

Posted on: 08 April 2011 by graham halliwell

10 of us from BS went on Wed evening in Norwich - (Tony's treat - thanks boss!).  Extended sextet with two saxes, both tenor, although one doubling on bass clarinet - especially interesting.  Only saw half the gig - my wife was at a rehearsal and we got delayed.  Enjoyed what I heard, some great arrangements and musicianship.  I think the drummer James Maddren is exceptional - especially his gift for listening and using the full dymanic range of his drums.  Kit is only in his early 20's and obviously very talented.  Instead of two woodwinds I'd have liked to have heard trumpet.  The cello player added some very interesting conterpoint and texture.

 

Didn't enjoy the Ornette Coleman encore - only Ornette can play Ornette (don't worry, my wife disagrees with me on this and I've been given some earache over it!).  Kit doesn't need to do this kind of thing - he has his own ideas and direction.  Refreshing.  Pity you weren't there James, althouth the Trio are playing Wymondham festival at the end of June.  We'll hopefully be there, say hello if you make it.

 

 

Posted on: 10 April 2011 by JWM

Glad you enjoyed it Graham, and thanks for heads up re Wymondham.