Peter Evans, a name synonymous with avant-garde trumpet mastery, is set to redefine your jazz expectations with his latest album, “Extra.” Released on We Jazz Records, “Extra” isn’t just an album; it’s an immersive experience, a deep dive into the collaborative genius of Evans alongside the formidable rhythm section of Petter Eldh on bass and Jim Black on drums. This trio, a powerhouse of contemporary jazz luminaries, converges to deliver a set of eight original compositions that pulsate with energy, innovation, and a palpable sense of collective discovery.
Recorded in the renowned Namouche Studio in Lisbon, “Extra” captures the raw excitement of musicians pushing their boundaries in real-time. The album resonates with the joy of musical camaraderie, each track a testament to the deep-seated synergy between Evans, Eldh, and Black, all long-term collaborators in various projects. From the moment “Freaks,” the opening track, explodes into existence, you’re propelled into a sonic landscape that is both exhilarating and deeply rewarding.
While Peter Evans is celebrated for his exceptional technical skills on the trumpet, “Extra” masterfully showcases his broader musical vision. It’s not just about individual brilliance; it’s about the unified force of the trio. The robust rhythmic foundation laid by Eldh and Black empowers Evans to explore the outer limits of his compositions, allowing the band to collectively unearth new expressive pathways. Tracks like “Freaks,” “In See,” and “Boom” exemplify this fiery, forward-thinking approach, radiating an intensity that rivals the Lisbon sun.
However, “Extra” is not confined to high-octane energy. Pieces like “Movement 56” and “The Lighthouse” reveal the album’s multifaceted nature, taking unexpected turns that surprise and captivate. These tracks are akin to stumbling upon hidden gems, unexpected discoveries down less-traveled paths, showcasing the trio’s dynamic range and improvisational depth. “Extra” is effortless creative music at its finest, born from the comfort and mutual encouragement within this exceptional ensemble.
The album features Peter Evans on piccolo trumpet, flugelhorn, and piano, demonstrating his versatility and expansive musical palette. Petter Eldh complements with bass and synthesizer, adding layers of texture and depth, while Jim Black’s drums and electronics provide a dynamic and inventive rhythmic backbone.
“Extra,” released on October 25, 2024, is more than just another jazz album; it’s a statement. It’s a vibrant, inventive, and utterly compelling collection of music that demands to be heard. As Monolith Cocktail aptly puts it, “Possibly one of the best jazz albums you’ll hear all year,” and Peter Margasak of Nowhere Street (Substack) boldly declares, “Extra is seriously extra.” Dive into “Extra” and experience the extraordinary musical universe of Peter Evans and his exceptional trio.
Track Listing:
- Freaks 04:53
- In See 05:11
- Boom 05:43
- Nova 02:30
- Movement 56 04:04
- Underworld 06:35
- Fully Born 02:58
- The Lighthouse 01:47
