Rolldown

They Say...

Review by Michael G. Nastos, All Music Guide

Vibraphonist Jason Adasiewicz is emerging as one of the most interesting bandleaders and composers in modern creative improvised jazz. As an individualist, his instrument is one that very few specialize in, the exception in recent times being New Yorker's Bill Ware or Brian Carrott. For Rolldown, the 14th in the series of Document Chicago CDs, Adasiewicz has assembled a quintet of astounding musical proportion and depth, playing his tricky music that seems to have no limits of imagination, wit or wisdom. Clarinetist and alto saxophonist Aram Shelton, a true rising star, proves his mettle frequently on this date. Josh Berman is a new name playing the cornet, while the rhythm section of bassist Jason Roebke and drummer Frank Rosaly are well established in their peer circle. Collectively the ensemble is quite fond of changing up tempos at will, evidenced by the stop-start, decaying and no-time bluesy swing centered "Small Potatoes," and the easier, then ramped up, bouncy and head nodding "Creep." The band is munching on some strange blue fruit during "Good Looking Android" establishing clarion calls, staggered phrasings, spatial and brittle melody lines with direct and indirect swing. The perfectly titled "Nearby" sports an ultimately underground theme via vibes and bass, hushed tones, reticent playing, inner space, and some long tones in the mezzo piano range. Also at a low level, "Valerie" features Shelton's clarinet during a curious piece of deference informed by the inquisitive vibes of Adasiewicz, while "Gather" is a solemn, funeral like piece where Shelton's clarinet and Roebke's bass coalesce. There's also a loping straight bop workout piece, "Little Screw," at nearly 17 minutes, again sped and slowed with scattered brass and sax. Adasiewicz is a fine player, in the backdrop overall, and more pronounced as an emerging writer. He's scratching the surface, and offering great potential on this fine effort that comes recommended to those who choose to listen closely.